In Service Teacher Education Manual for Teachers and Teacher ...

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Computerized Accounting has been introduced in class XI as compulsory ... Accountancy Practical has been introduced as compulsory part of course in class XII ...
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In Service Teacher Education Manual for Teachers and Teacher Educators in Commerce (higher secondary stage)

Development T eam Dr. Minoo Nandrajog Associate Professor (Commerce) DESSH, NCERT Prof. D K Vaid Head, DES&DP NCERT Dr. Harjeet Kaur Associate Professor Department of Education Jamia Millia Islamia New Delhi Mr. Shruti Bodh Aggarwal Vice Principal Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya Kishanganj, Delhi Mr. Shruti Bodh Aggarwal Vice Principal Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya Kishanganj, Delhi Ms. Sashi Kala PGT Commerce Mount Carmel School Anand Niketan, New Delhi Dr. Seema Srivastava Lecturer, DIET, Moti Bagh SCERT, New Delhi Ms. Inderjeet Kaur PGT Commerce Delhi Public School Mathura Road, New Delhi

CONTENTS Introduction SECTION I Chapter 1

Organization of In-service Training

1

Chapter 2

Teacher Training Outcome

11

Chapter 1

Commerce Education

16

Chapter 2

Teaching Learning Strategies

29

SECTION II

Chapter 3 3A 3B 3C 3D 3E 3F 3G

Transaction of Themes

53

Mining Industry and Environment Principles of Management Business Environment Globalization and Business Environment Financial System Marketing Consumer Protection

54 56 89 96 105 117 128

Chapter 4

Evaluation in Business Studies

145

Chapter 5

Enabling Environment

201

Introduction Manual – What is it and How is it Useful A manual is a tool used to gather information how to use a particular device. Thus we have a manual with every pack of devices such as computer, refrigerator and other machines which we buy for our everyday use. In the parlance of business studies especially in the present context it is a store of literature which will help the teachers of business studies to make their curriculum transaction practices more innovative and useful for pupils. It will reflect on some suggestions which the teachers can use to make teaching learning process more students centered. It would therefore focus on areas such as making best use of the time to create interest in the subject. As you will find it contains an article on curriculum transaction of unit 2- Principles of management which has 14 mini lesson plans which suggest practical ways of transacting the curriculum in modern way using internet and question answer method. This is typically different from the tradition Herbatian lesson plan taught in most B .Ed courses. This lesson has been allotted 14 periods and hence 14 lesson plans. The manual contains resources for teachers to refresh their knowledge about technicalities of the subject. Thus enrichment articles such as ‘Evaluation in Business studies’ touch upon types of evaluation both formative and summative which are very much now part of the reforms being carried out by the CBSE. This process is likely to be extended to senior secondary classes. The teachers of business studies have to make very innovative choices to fulfill the objectives of CCE system. This article should help them in such an effort. A need has been felt that Business Studies must become more interesting for the students so that they feel inclined to take the subject seriously for better learning and application. Case studies have been included in the book for this purpose. But due to inflexibilities of the examination system these case studies are not used in the class. For the first time case problems are also included in the book. The teachers should use them for better curriculum transaction. The manual should provide some insight to the teachers to use the case studies and case problems in class. Case studies of Telecom Sector and Business Environment, Mining and Business Environment, Tata’s Nano can have been discussed. In the present manual some enrichment material has also been included on some topics like ‘Business Environment’ and Financial System. This type of material should encourage teachers to go beyond textbook to supplement the textual material. This should make the teaching learning of Business Studies more interesting and lively for students. It is expected that the manual would be useful for teachers. Any suggestion for improvement is always welcome.

Section I CHAPTER 1

ORGANISATION OF IN-SERVICE TRAININGOF TEACHERS Need and Importance The destiny of a country is shaped in its classrooms. Teachers play a pivotal role in this activity. Therefore they must keep abreast the latest methods of curriculum transactions in class. Accordingly teachers training during service are required for the following reasons: a.

To keep abreast with the latest happenings in recent past.

b.

To help teachers recognize the individual differences in children and modify the method of teaching accordingly.

c.

To remove any deficiencies in knowledge of subject content and also enrichment thereof.

d.

To recognize and master the use of teaching aids like computers and internet including PowerPoint Presentations to make the teaching learning process more lively and useful.

e.

To incorporate constructivist approach to teaching learning process as per concerns of National Curriculum Framework, 2005.

f.

Using technology to enhance the learning process.

Need for Inservice Teachers Training for Teachers of Accountancy The curriculum of accountancy for senior secondary level has undergone substantial change in the last few years. Some of the changes and also need for in-service training is given below:a.

Computerized Accounting has been introduced in class XI as compulsory part of the course and optional part in class XII. It involves the use of MS ACCESS in which relational accounting database has to be set up. This part is not taught thoroughly by the teachers as they are not fully conversant with computers. Accordingly both theoretical and practical training should be imparted to teachers in this area so that the students do not suffer.

b.

Accountancy Practical has been introduced as compulsory part of course in class XII. It involves the examination in the topics of ratio analysis and cash flow statement based on annual report of companies. But the teachers are

not fully conversant with using the annual report of companies. Consequently training should be imparted in this area so that the pedagogical objectives are met and we impart some useful employability skills to students. c.

Some new developments have taken place recently like passing of a bill on ‘LIMITED LIABILITY PAR TNERSHIP’ and a draft ‘COMPANIES BILL, 2008’. The teachers should be informed in detail in this regard so that our curriculum is updated for the benefit of the students.

d.

Some topics of the syllabus like ‘SHARE CAPITAL’ is still imparting old concepts like Share Application, Share Allotment, and calls etc. Latest methods like ‘Book Building Process’ of capital issues etc should be incorporated and taught so that the students are not lagging behind. The curriculum can be modified only with support of teachers. Accordingly the teachers should train in this field of curriculum in advance so that it is acceptable.

e.

There is a demand from teachers that practical aspects like TALLY etc should be introduced to increase employability skills of pupils. All this requires inservice training.

f.

Every year teachers have certain difficulties regarding syllabus which has some changes and also some topics which are not clear. In-service training provides an opportunity for removal of such difficulties.

g.

In-service training also provides teachers an opportunity to meet peers and exchange ideas on better curriculum transaction.

Need for Inservice Training for Teachers of Business Studies Over the years curriculum of business studies has also changed and new methods of curriculum transaction are being introduced. This necessitates need for inservice training due to the following reasons:a.

In the new book of business studies for class XII, case problems have been introduced. While on the one hand it has necessitated the need for using box items in the NCER T book as teaching aids and on the other hand it is in consonance with constructivist approach of the NCF, 2005.

b.

In continuation of point no.1 it is to be noted that CBSE has earmarked 20% weight age to application oriented questions which can include questions from case studies, case problems, box items, pictures and cartoons from the NCER T book. But adequate training in this aspect has not been given to teachers. Accordingly these reforms although beneficial for the attainment of educational objectives have not found favour with the teachers. Therefore adequate training should be imparted in this aspect of curriculum change.

c.

Teaching of business studies has followed very bookish approach and the other methods such as class discussions, group problem solving and use of outside material like business magazines and periodicals have not caught

attention of the teachers. In the context of globalization of our business environment where knowledge is power such modern methods should be used in our class rooms. For this the required training should be given to the teachers. d.

In the schools the CBSE has introduced language labs, social science labs and mathematics labs. All these subjects have practical work in them. In business studies and accountancy also there is practical work. So a demand it being made for introducing commerce laboratory in schools. The teachers should be trained in this aspect to make the change meaningful and useful.

e.

There are some changes in the curriculum like in class XII the unit on business environment has been included in the syllabus for 2010 board examination of CBSE whereas it was excluded earlier. The teachers need training in how to use this unit in other parts of the syllabus productively. Many such aspects of the curriculum like methods of control, financial markets and marketing etc require reinforcement.

Training Need Analysis An in-service teacher training programme can be successful only if it results in teacher gaining some knowledge or skill which will increase the effectiveness of the curriculum transaction process in the classroom. Therefore to make the training programme effective need analysis of the teachers is very important. There are many methods of finding out the needs which must be fulfilled by the training programme. Some of these can be: a.

.Questionnaire: A well designed questionnaire filled by the teacher during seminars and workshops can help to find out areas which the teacher feels are important for training. This questionnaire can be utilized by teacher training institutions such as NCER T, SCER T AND DIET’S for designing a training programme.

b.

Student feedback: Students are the real consumers of teaching services. Therefore it would be very useful if their opinion is sought as to where the teacher is lacking. Unfortunately this method is not taken very seriously in India. For example in business study class a student might ask a question on a subject out of the course but very much related to the curriculum. In such a situation a teacher might feel that he/she requires in-service training. One such topic is computerized accounting which is taught as a compulsory part in class XI and optional part of class XII curriculum.

c.

Classroom observation: Educational experts can observe the teacher during inspections and also otherwise to find out the deficiencies which can be removed due to training.

d.

Drawing conclusions during evaluation process: - When evaluation process of students is underway their deficiencies can be found out and an in-service

training programme can be designed to remove them in the teaching learning process. For example lately CBSE has introduced HOTS questions and the teachers are not adequately trained to handle them and also inculcate skills which the students need to answer those questions. e.

Feedback from school administrators and parents: - Sometimes the school principals and vice principals can help to find out any deficiencies which ought to be removed. Parents who observe their child more than the teacher can also chip in with their comments and suggestions.

Some Emerging Needs for Training in General and for Commerce Teacher in Particular a.

Changing expectations of society: - The role of education is changing very rapidly due to changes in society. Education is in great demand and technology is changing and so is curriculum. So the teacher who is regularly updated about all these things is only successful. Accordingly in-service training is to be imparted to him/her. Talking about commerce teacher the subject is semivocational and therefore there is a pressing need to update knowledge of the teacher in many areas like changes in business environment etc.

b.

Use of information and communication technology: The use of ICT and internet in particular has opened new vistas for making education process effective. As such all teachers including commerce teacher has to learn how to use it for making his lesson delivery good and efficient. For example although computerized accounting has been introduced long back but still the commerce teacher is not equipped to teach this subject effectively and practically. Hence training is required in this area.

c.

Increasing competition: A student has to face a lot of competition in every walk of life. The process of education should empower the child to emerge victorious in this battle. Accordingly the curriculum is changing and even areas such as life skill education are being inculcated. For a commerce teacher this is more relevant because business gives maximum employment to youth and accordingly the commerce teacher should be trained to impart latest and modern skills to children.

d.

Employability skills: Related to life skills are employability skills which include decision making, empathy and sociability etc. These are being integrated into the curriculum in the form of case studies and applied questions. Every teacher in general and commerce teacher in particular needs to be empowered in these areas.

e.

Group work cooperation: Modern curriculum transaction techniques emphasise group work among students as a method of attaining learning objectives effectively. The teachers need to be trained to use it with ease and confidence.

Some Specific Areas Where Commerce Teachers Require in Service Training Commerce teachers require areas in some of the following areas: a.

Using case studies and case problems: - As we know that it is important for a student to apply the knowledge gained. In business studies this is sought to be done through use of case studies. They are real life situational examples which help students to visualize themselves into the shoes of managers of companies and thus learn a vital skill which is not possible otherwise. According to the latest decision these now also form a part of evaluation process. Therefore a teacher ought to be equipped to handle these and to make the best use of them in class.

b.

Computerised accounting: As discussed above this is another grey area where the teachers find themselves at a loss to teach properly because they have not been trained fully to handle this. Accordingly they should be given inservice training in this area.

c.

Practical work: At present there is a 10 marks project work in business studies in class XI and 20 marks practical in class XII. But in reality these are not as effective as was decided. The teachers there fore need to be trained in this area.

d.

Use of internet as teaching aid: By its very nature internet is finding increasing use in modern class teaching. But in India it is not used as much as abroad because of lack of facilities and training. Topics like financial markets are best taught through internet. So the commerce teachers need to be equipped to use this in the class to be more effective.

e.

Using power point presentations: The teacher should use power point presentations to make his/her teaching livelier. For this due training should be given to him/her.

Organisational Issues- Infrastructural Facilities, Human Resources, Collaboration with Institutions, Number of Teachers Infrastructural Facilities To make any in-service training programme successful requires massive infrastructural facilities apart from motivation and coordination at all levels to make the desired impact. Some of the physical resources required are:a.

Availability of adequate finance to conduct the training.

b.

Supply linkages with the vendors.

c.

Availability of rooms with adequate facilities and other infrastructure like toilets etc.

d.

Adequate number of computers, LCD projectors for power point presentations, and microphones.

e.

Well trained teacher educators who have command over the subject and also respect of the teachers.

f.

Adequate stationary and photocopying facilities.

Some Specific Infrastructure Facilities for In service Training of Commerce Teachers Commerce being a subject which is semi vocational and directly connected with life the teachers need to be trained to link it with external reality and therefore require some special infrastructure facilities:a.

Special stationery like formats of cash book, vouchers and ledgers etc. so that teachers of accountancy can be given real hands on experience in filling them which they can transmit to the students in curriculum transactions.

b.

Software like MS- office and accounting packages like Tally which will help in training teachers in their use and hence passed on to the students in normal teaching.

c.

Special furniture like oval shaped tables, bulletin boards & overhead projectors etc. for practice in Group teaching, Co-teaching, Team teaching. Experiential learning, Problem based learning and Micro teaching. This practice is important so that these practices percolate down in the school curriculum transaction for effective realization of educational objectives.

d.

Annual reports of various companies in which teachers can be trained to use them as a learning aid for curriculum transaction both in accountancy and business studies especially in project work in accountancy of class XII as per CBSE curriculum.

e.

Business magazines and newspapers like Business week, Business Today and Economic Times from which teachers can be trained to construct case studies for curriculum transaction in Business Studies. They can also be trained to use business news as a learning aid.

Human Resources Required The following human resources are required: a.

Core resource persons for taking the sessions.

b.

Administrative personnel for taking care of those issues.

c.

Helping staff for other work.

Specific Requirement of Human Resources for Commerce Teachers Training a.

Lecturers/Readers/Professors of commerce/Management/Education from colleges, universities and Institutes etc.

b.

Members of professional bodies like ICAI, ICWAI, and ICSI & AIMA etc.

c.

People from Income-Tax, Value Added Tax and other revenue departments of government of India or state concerned.

Collaborative Institutions In-service training cannot be imparted without the resources and support of the institutions which have the expertise in the areas in which the training is to be given. Apart from this the cooperation of institutions which provide the teachers who come for training is also required. For example if we have to conduct a workshop on using case studies in business then it would be prudent to have core faculty from IIM’s or FMS and teachers of schools who are interested in the workshop. If the venue of training is being provided by an institution then its full support and collaboration is needed. Collaborative Institutions for Commerce Teachers Inservice Training a.

Colleges of Education particularly for enrichment of teachers on pedagogical tools to be used in commerce curriculum transaction.

b.

Institutes of management.

c.

Universities and colleges of commerce.

d.

nstitute of Chartered Accountants of India.

e.. Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India. f

Institute of Company Secretaries of India.

g.

Economic ministries of the Government of India like Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Corporate Affairs etc.

h.

Financial institutions like Banks & Insurance Companies etc Institutes like Small industry Service Institute & Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India etc.

i.

Departments of taxation of state like VAT and Service Tax etc.

j.

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCER T) and State Council of Education Research and Training (SCETs).

k.

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and State Boards of School Education.

Constructivism and Role of the Teacher Before examining how constructivism can be incorporated in in-service training of teachers it is apt to understand 4 principles on which constructivism is based upon. The philosophy of constructivism essentially assumes that a learner is an active participant in the learning process and this is achieved through actively constructing knowledge based on the experiences one has. The 4 essential principles of constructivism are:a.

Knowledge is not passively accumulated, but rather, is the result of active cognizing by the individual;

b.

Cognition is an adaptive process that functions to make an individual’s behavior more viable given a particular environment;

c.

Cognition organizes and makes sense of one’s experience, and is not a process to render an accurate representation of reality; and

d.

Knowing has roots both in biological/neurological construction, and in social, cultural, and language-based interactions.

Thus, constructivism acknowledges the learner’s active role in the personal creation of knowledge, the importance of experience (both individual and social) in this knowledge creation process, and the realization that the knowledge created will vary in its degree of validity as an accurate representation of reality. These four fundamental tenets provide the foundation for basic principles of the teaching, learning, and knowing process as described by constructivism. In a constructivist classroom, individuals construct knowledge by working to solve realistic problems, usually in collaboration with others. The focus is primarily on a student’s motivation to learn and apply what they learn to the real world. Constructivists concentrate on showing students relevance in what they are learning. Learning is thought of as a change i n meaning constructed from experience. The students are asked to construct knowledge themselves, not just receive it from the teacher. In the constructivist classroom teachers would pose well realistically complex a n d personally meaningful problems for students to solve. Students would work in cooperative groups to explore their possible answers, develop a product, and present their findings to a specific audience. Thus case method can be used in class to give experiences which will help students to actively construct knowledge. In the teaching of business studies and accountancy constructivism can be used with the help of:a.

Case studies

b.

Case Problems

c.

Role Plays

d.

Class Discussions

e.

Brain Storming

f.

Projects

g.

Debates

h.

Quizzes

i.

Interaction with ex-students and people in the industry

j.

Industry visits

k.

Study Tours

l.

Short term courses and workshops

m. Use of open education resources and internet. n.

Films and power points.

The teachers have to be trained in the development of the software & hardware of the above methods and using them efficiently and effectively. We have seen the implications of constructivism and the tools to achieve the same. Now the question comes how the teacher can be empowered to use it in class. The teachers need training in the use of tools listed above. For this appropriate programs can be designed and administered. Types of Training Programmes a s Proposed/Conducted by NCERT /other Institutions for Commerce Teachers There are different types of training programmes the schools and teachers.

designed to suit the needs of

1.

3 day programme: - This is usually organized as an orientation programme to introduce changes in the curriculum and textbooks. The focus is to familarise the teachers with the changes and new approach adopted in the textbooks. The number of master trainers can be 50 or so.

2.

5 day programme: - This programme is organized with the purpose of focusing on pedagogy and content enrichment. The objective is to demonstrate new approaches of teaching along with content. This enables the teacher to be empowered with contemporary pedagogy as well as refresh content and focus on emerging areas in the discipline. This manual may be used for 5 day programs by teacher educators, state boards/school councils dealing with higher secondary education. It consists of objectives of commerce education, commerce syllabi and textbooks, commerce, Teaching learning strategies, Transaction of themes, Principles of Management, Business Environment, Globalization, Financial System, Marketing and Consumer Protection. Some of these topics are enrichment material for teachers and some in the form of lessons for students which can be adopted by teachers’.

3.

21 day training programme: - This is conducted on the principle of continuing in-service education for teachers. This is also a service condition and promotion is based on teachers attending a 21 day training programme conducted by an authorized organization or university. For example Institute of Advanced Studies in Education (IASE), SCER T, and K e n d r i y a Vidyalaya Sangathan conduct such tra in ing programmes for their teachers. The focus is on both content enrichment and pedagogy. Besides content many contemporary and emerging issues are also dealt with like Peace Education, Education for Groups with special Needs, Gender issues, and many other current issues related to school education.

CHAPTER 2

TEACHER TRAINING OUTCOME Evaluation of the Programme The programme can be evaluated on many parameters like: a.

Effectiveness from the teacher point of view.

b.

How far the resource person was satisfied from the response of the teachers.

c.

Subsequent use of the knowledge and competence gained in actual classroom transactions.

d.

Effectiveness of the use of the above on pupils

e.

Modification if any required in future programmes.

The training program can also be evaluated using Donald S Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model which lists 4 levels of learning evaluation namely:a.

Reaction of the teacher who undergoes training –what they thought and felt about the training.

b.

Learning- The resulting increase in knowledge or capability.

c.

Behaviour – Extent of behavior and capability improvement and implementation/ application.

d.

Results- How the training program improved/will improve the classroom environment and other learning outcomes.

While the first two are formative assessments the last two are summative assessments of the in-service training program. Formative assessment is carried out with the help of questionnaire(s) after every training session. The summative assessments are carried out in the pre-test before the programme and post test after the programme. Normal precautions are to be taken while framing the questionnaires and tests with regard to the objectives to be met and validity criterion thereof. A Five Days Training Programme for Master Trainers in Commerce

Feedback Form Instructions 1.

The purpose of this information check-list is to obtain the opinion of the participant teacher of Commerce about various aspects of the training transaction.

2.

Kindly feel free to reply questions/supply information. Your responses will be kept strictly confidential.

3.

Additional information/comments/remarks concerning improvement of the programme may be given at the end of this information check list.

4.

Please put tick (

) mark against the appropriate response.

Section A Personal Data 1.

Name of the Participant……………………………………….................................

2.

Age………………………………………................................................................

3.

Male/Female…………………………………………………………………………………

4.

Full Postal Address……………………………………………………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………..……………………….………………………………………………………………

5.

Telephone………………………………………..………………………………………….

6.

E.mail……………………………………….……………………………………………….

7.

Teaching Experience……………………………………….……………………………..

8.

Pre-Service Training Trained/untrained………………………...........................

9.

Titles of in-service Training/Programme attended during last five years S.No.

Title

Organised by

Section B Evaluation of Programme transaction 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

The mode for conducting training programme was: a)

Useful

b)

Useful to some extent

c)

Not so useful

The resource persons: a)

Encouraged open discussion

b)

Answered questions only

c)

Created Proper motivation in the subject matter.

The presentation of the topics/themes by the resource persons was: a)

Clear, definite and useful

b)

Sometimes clear and sometimes confusing.

c)

Mechanical and Monotonous.

The quality of training materials distributed was a)

Excellent

b)

Good

c)

Average

The strategies/methods/interventions taught during training could be applied: a)

Very effectively

b)

Effectively

c)

Not effectively

Course transaction methodology followed in the training programmes was: a)

Demonstration of content cum methodology

b)

Demonstration of content cum methodology supported by joyful learning approaches, remedial instruction and enrichment lessons.

c)

Group discussion and Projects and assignments.

d)

All the above.

The duration of training was: a)

Adequate

c)

Inadequate

b) Moderately adequate

8.

9.

Level of interaction between resource persons and participants were: a)

High

c)

Average

b) Poor

Level of competence of resource persons as rated by you: a)

High

c)

Average

b) Poor

10. Level of involvement of the resource persons in training transaction was : a)

High

d)

Average

b) Poor

Section C Evaluation of Programme Input 1.

2.

3.

4.

Quality of training material developed for the training was: a)

Excellent

b)

Good

c)

Average

Availability of teaching-aids in training a)

White/Blackboard

b)

Computers

c)

Multi-Media

d)

Computer Stationary

Availability of space for group work was: a)

Adequate

b)

Moderately adequate

c)

Inadequate

Availability of space for seating arrangement was: a)

Adequate

b)

Moderately adequate

c)

Inadequate

5.

6.

7.

Availability of modules/materials to each participant during training: a)

Adequate

b)

Moderately adequate

c)

Inadequate

Distribution of Materials was: a)

Timely

b)

Delayed

Comprehensibility of Materials prepared and supplied: a)

Comprehensive

b)

Comprehensive to some extent

c)

Marginally comprehensive

Section D Visualisation of role of the teacher after training 1.

2.

3.

Teachers’ role should be perceived as a: a)

Source of knowledge

b)

Facilitator of transforming information and technology

Knowledge should be constructed by the a)

Teacher

b)

Learners in his/her own ways through absorption, interaction, observation and reflection.

Please indicate the strong points and the weak points of the training programme. Strong Points

Weak Points

i)

i)

ii)

ii)

iii)

iii)

iv)

iv)

Section II CHAPTER 1

COMMERCE EDUCATION It is commonly agreed that education should aim at ‘holistic development’ of the individual. Further, such d e v e l o p m e n t should be in harmony with the society and the nature. To quote the great Indian philosopher Sri Aurobindo, education should aim at “all round development of the personality, which includes education of the sense, body, mind, moral and spiritual education.” The concepts of ‘all round development of personality’, or ‘holistic development’ include all the aspects of development-intellectual, spiritual, m o r a l , economic, etc. However, some philosophers have defined the economic aims of education. Christopher Winch1; a British scholar says ‘education is broadly, although not exclusively concerned with preparation for life or for particular phase of life’. He gave three aspects to this concept of education, which are ‘fulfillment’, ‘civic participation’ and ‘v o c a t io n ’ and s p e c if i e s that the individual con ce ption of education, as they can be found in particular societies at particular time, consists of distinct combination of these different aspects. In order to define the objectives of commerce education, it may be important to go a little into its history. The origin of commerce education can be traced to the 19th century. It started with the teaching of skill based courses of ‘typing’ and ‘book keeping’, to meet the emerging manpower requirements in these areas. With an increase in commercial activities and expansion of banking, insurance, transportation and other related services, the nature and scope of commerce education changed. From a vocational bias in the initial years, the focus changed to providing liberal business education. Some experts even gave different objectives for different stages or levels of education. For example, Prof. Dasgupta 2 (1959) used three different expressions to indicate ‘business education’, at three different levels. At the junior level (higher secondary stage), it was referred to as ‘commercial education,’ covering specific skills programmes; at the first degree stage, the term used was ‘commerce education’, to cover general stream courses for preparing semi professionals and at ‘post graduation’ level, it was termed as ‘Professional Business Education’, with the aim of preparing experts in specific areas. In other words, commerce education, at less than degree level was referred to as ‘commercial education’ or ‘vocational business education’. However, the commonly accepted view at present is that commerce education at higher secondary stage is not merely to satisfy the skill or vocational needs of

pupils but provides basic understanding of the various principles, procedures and practices related to business. It also fosters an understanding of the economy, of the community in which activities related to business and industry takes place. It prepares the learners to take up business career. The secondary schools should therefore, provide the students with knowledge of the background of commerce and of the way it affects the life of the community, apart from the commercial knowledge and skills. This integrating approach to the liberal and vocational education has the support of many modern thinkers on education. It is argued that education should turn the people to something he knows well and can do well. Thus, commerce should be taken as both a knowledge subject and a skill subject. Introduction of distinct stream of vocational education On the basis of the recommendation of the Kothari commission, a distinct stream of education, called vocational stream was introduced at the +2 stage of senior secondary education in the country, with a view to intercepting goalless climb up of youth on the educational ladder and diverting them to a productive path. The focus was put on providing skill based education and training so that the employability of the pass outs can be improved. Thus at present there are two distinct streams of education prevailing in the country viz. the academic stream and the vocational stream. Commerce is being taught both in the academic and the vocational stream. The academic stream is off course dominating as over 95 per cent of all the students of higher secondary pursue academic courses. Of the vocational courses, commerce based courses are quite popular in most states and UT as about 25 per cent of all the vocational students in the country are studying some or other of the 16 different commerce based courses, being offered by the schools running vocational programme. The focus of the vocational stream, quite clearly is on providing occupation specific education and training to improve employability of the pass out students. The question then is wheat should the academic stream commerce course aim at? Should it concentrate on preparing children for taking admission in a college? Should it provide only theoretical knowledge about the business process and procedures or should it also provide opportunities of gaining practical knowledge and skills to the students. If skills are to be provided, the question is hat type of skills should it concentrate on? The focus of the academic stream of education, therefore, needs to be clearly specified. In order to work out the objectives of academic stream of commerce education, it was decided to know the views of the responding stakeholders and experts on the subject. The result of the findings are reported in the following sections. The findings are based on the facts collected from teachers, employers, students and users of commerce related services regarding different aspects.

1. Main Objective of Commerce Education The main objective of the academic stream of commerce education at the higher secondary stage, as perceived by the responding stakeholders, include teacher educators, experts, and representatives of employers. It may be observed at a very small per cent (about 4 per cent) of the respondents viewed that the main objective of commerce education is to provide only the skills to the students, another 24 per cent felt that the objective is to provide only the basic knowledge in the field of Commerce, while over 71 per cent respondents viewed that the main objective is to provide both knowledge as well as skills about business related activities to the students. Thus the objective of commerce education is not perceived as college preparatory only but is to provide both knowledge as well as skills related to business and commerce related activities. The specific objectives of academic stream of commerce education may, therefore, include the following: i)

to provide knowledge of principles, practices, procedures, etc. about business, trade and industry and its relationship with the society;

ii)

to provide basic knowledge of technological tools including computers and its application in business;

iii) to develop an understanding of the environment in which we live and undertake various activities relating to business; iv) to develop basic skills needed to undertake different commerce related activities; v)

to educate learners in different functional areas and develop their basic understanding about the same;

vi) to develop right aptitude and qualities for undertaking business and commerce related activities; and vii) to encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship and prepare learners to enter into a business career. 2. Extent of Achievement of Objectives Having specified the objectives, the respondents were also asked to indicate whether, in their view, the stated objectives of commerce education were being presently achieved. It may be observed that the average score on a five-point scale, from minimum to maximum, in respect of ‘Development of Skills’ was minimum (score 1.2). The same was fairly high (scare 4) in respect of ‘providing knowledge’ to take up college education. However in respect of the identified objective of providing both knowledge and skills, the perceived level of achievement was below average (score 2.3).

It may, therefore, be stated that though the objective of commerce education is sperc3eived to be to provide both ‘knowledge’ and ‘skills’ to the students, in actual the course is perceived to be concentrating only on providing required knowledge and preparing the students to take up higher education courses. The provision of skill is largely being ignored. The students are not exposed to the practical aspect of the commerce related activities. 3. The Problem Areas In view of the general perception among the respondents that the objective of providing both the knowledge and the skills to the students is not being achieved, it is important to know about the problems coming in the way of achieving the same. The responding stakeholders were, therefore, requested to give their views on the problems. i)

Examination system (reported by 78 per cent of the respondents);

ii)

Method of teaching (48 per cent) and

iii) Teacher Training (45 per cent). The present examination system is stated to be having several limitations. It evaluates only the theoretical or conceptual aspects and does not evaluate the practical aspects of the subject. Further, it encourages ‘rote learning’ and focuses on achieving “good marks” rather than on gaining perfect knowledge and skills about commerce related activities. The system insists on ‘one right answer’ and does not encourage thinking differently. It curbs creativity and puts emphasis on testing ‘book work’ and getting good marks. There is also a feeling among he responding students that the marking system, though liberal is not realistic. There is greater reliance on ‘End term examination’, as the continuous comprehensive system of evaluation has not been introduced. The limitation of the present examination system, as specified above, have contributed to putting the focus on providing knowledge to the students, ignoring the skills aspect. As regards the method of teaching, about half of the respondents felt that most of the teaching in the class is done through lecture method, which covers only the theoretical aspects of the subject; and is not related with the practical work. This does not go well with the objective of providing both ‘knowledge’ and skills to the students. The third limitation relates to the lack of provision for teachers training. It is felt that no efforts have been made in developing practical skills of the teachers. The lack of availability of infrastructure for training of teachers adds to this situation. The present curriculum is stated to be focusing on theoretical aspects and is not linked to the needs of either the industry or day-to-day life of the students. It, therefore, does not provide opportunities for learning practical skills to the students, which is perceived to be a contributing factor to the present situation.

4. Suggestions for Improvement The respondent’s suggestions as to what should be done to achieve the objectives are described as below: (a) Emphasis on Practical Skills- A vast majority (77 per cent) of the respondents felt that the course should place greater emphasis on imparting practical skills such as presentation skills, communication skills, analytical skills, problem solving and listening skills, which are commonly used in all commerce related occupations. Various suggestions to achieve this include introduction of project work, commerce laboratories, organization of seminars, workshops and taking up of field work activities where by the students get an opportunity of observing the practical work and practicing it, to learn the same. Further, the interaction with the industry is desired to be established so that on the job training, guest lectures, etc can be organized and the students can be given a feel of the practical world of work. (b) Teacher Training- Another important suggestion that has come up from over forty per cent of the respondents is that regular refresher training courses is organized, to provide practical knowledge and skills to the teachers. Until the teachers are themselves exposed to the practical work, they would not be able to impart the same to the students. It is also desired that the training courses cover such information as career guidance and counseling and that the method of trading be made more elaborate, to enable imparting practical skills. (c) Method of Examination- Approximately two third of the respondents felt that is order to bring the desired improvements in the achievement of the objectives of commerce education, the examination system need to be changed. Emphasis should be placed on testing practical knowledge and skills. To achieve that, Mock Tests etc. should be organized and the objective type questions, multiple-choice questions should be emphasized. (d) Method of Teaching-As regards teaching commerce subjects, it is desired that the teaching method should be apt for transacting practical skills and be oriented towards the industry. It should incorporate latest technical knowledge and link theoretical knowledge with practical work so that the subject is made more interesting and useful to the students. Emphasis should be placed on explaining logic so that the students can be made to independently tackle the problems. (e) Entrepreneurship Training- It is suggested that not only the course of commerce should emphasis imparting practical skills, it should develop entrepreneurial values and attitude among the students so that they are motivated to be enterprising, creative, risk bearing, taking initiative and induced to take up their own venture, instead of looking only for wage employment opportunities.

(f)

Curriculum-In respect of the curriculum, it is suggested that greater emphasis should be placed on developing practical skills and that computer-based education should be provided to the students. Not only that, the syllabus sold be revised periodically, in the light of the changing economic, social and technological environment of business. For example, developments in the filed of computers and information technology has influenced the way business is transacted. The expansion of e-commerce, e-finance, e marketing, einvestment, e banking, e-recruitment, outsourcing business and call center activities have influenced the business processes and methods in a great way. These need to be reflected in the syllabus, so that the course is valued by the users.

5. Linkage with the Industry The present curriculum has been found to be only moderately useful to the industry. In order to make it more useful it is suggested that the students should be exposed to practical knowledge, a) by engaging them on project work, or attachment with industry, and b) establishing interaction with industry thro8ugh field visits, involving professionals in teaching, and organising lectures by industry experts/successful entrepreneurs. It was generally perceived that the present curriculum offered low degree of opportunities of skill development to the students of commerce As a result, the pass-outs of higher secondary course only have theoretical or conceptual background of various aspects of business and trade. When it comes to the practical knowledge when they are asked to perform an activity, the results are rather poor because the required skills have not been developed in them. This is a common situation, which affects the acceptability of the students by the industry as well as the users of services. The industry looks for skilled people who have a practical exposure to various commerce related activities and possess generic skills like communication skills, problem-solving skills etc. As the present curriculum offers low opportunities of skill development, need for rectifying the position has been strongly felt. Various suggestions received to improve the situation in this regard include organization of field visits, on the job training of the students, improving the infrastructural facilities and provision for establishment of commerce laboratories in the schools. 6. Strengthening linkages Any serious effort to make the commerce curriculum relevant to the industry and increasing its acceptability would require strengthening of linkages between the school and the industry. Various suggestions have been received in this regard, from the responding stakeholders. These are discussed as follows. Firstly, it is strongly felt that organising field visits to business enterprises,

commercial establishments etc. would be of great help in exposing the students to the real work of business. For example, the student may be taken to a factory and shown how goods are being manufactured or packaged. This will give them a real feel of the various processes and an opportunity or relating these to what is being taught in the class. This is very important for sustaining their interest in the subject and making them useful to the employers as well as to the society in general. Second, it is suggested that industrial internship, to three to four week’s duration, during the summer vacation (or some other vacations), would be quite helpful in providing the students an opportunity of actually working in an office or in the field environment. Third, the students may be assigned some project work relating to the subject of study. Let us say while teaching the chapter on marketing, the students may be asked to go to their local market and find out which brands of a particular product, say toothpaste or toilet soap are available in a retail outlet; which of these are preferred by a particular class of buyers (say people belonging to lower income group) and why? Further, the schools may regularly organize seminars, workshops and discussions where experts from industry are invited to participate and interact with the students. For example, sharing of experiences by successful entrepreneurs may be of great interest and utility to the student. Fifth, the schools may be encouraged to set up commerce laboratory where the students can practice through charts, models, computer games, exploration on internet, etc. some of the practical aspects of what is taught in the class. Other important suggestions received for strengthening the linkages include making a provision for extensive training of the teachers and inducing industry for adoption of schools so that the course can run efficiently. If the teachers are not trained regularly, they would not be able to impart knowledge and skills about the latest developments in their field. Moreover, the role of teachers is changing fast. They have to work like facilitators, in the present day world of information and fast changing technological and economic environment. Thus, periodic training of teachers is very important for effectively running a course. As regards the strategy for development of linkages, it is agreed that the industry should be persuaded to cooperate with the schools. 7. Entrepreneurial Values The present curriculum was perceived to be offering low degree of opportunities for development of entrepreneurial values, attitudes and skills. As a result most of the pass-outs were included to look for some wage employment oppo9rtunities, after completing their studies. This creates a lot of stress on the already soaring list of unemployed youth in the country and need improvements. The students may be induced towards entrepreneurship. The entrepreneurial values, attitudes and skills should be groomed from schools days so that the pass-outs can be prepared to set up their own ventures instead of looking for wage employment.

To improve the situation, various suggestions. Include organization of field visits, adoption of case study approach, teaching of biographies of successful entrepreneurs, use of small Business Games and Mock stock exchange proceedings for teaching these aspects and bringing change in the orientation of curriculum and textbooks, to incorporate entrepreneurial value and attitudes. Commerce Education needs the infusion of fresh ideas so as to provide a stimulating, supporting and sustaining environment. National Curriculum Framework A brief discussion on National Curriculum Frameworks. Historical Perspective After Independence, the concerns of education articulated during the freedom struggle were revisited by the national Commissions-the Secondary Education Commission (1952-53) and the Education commission (1964-66). Education under the Indian Constitution until 1976 allowed the state governments to take decisions on all matters pertaining to school education, including curriculum, within their jurisdiction. The Centre could only provide guidance to the States on policy issues. It is under such circumstances that the initial attempts of the National Education Policy of 1968 and the Curriculum Framework designed by NCERT in 1975 were formulated. In 1976, the Constitution was amended to include education in the Concurrent List, and for the first time in 1986 the country as a whole had a uniform National Policy on Education. The NPE (1986) recommended a common core component in the school curriculum throughout the country. The policy also entrusted NCER T with responsibility of developing the National Curriculum Framework, and reviewing the framework at frequent intervals. The basic concerns of education-to enable children to make sense of life and develop their potential, to define and pursue a purpose and recognize the right of others to do the same-stand uncontested and valid even today. If anything, we need to reiterate the mutual interdependence of humans. Equally, we need to reaffirm our commitment to the concept of equality, within the landscape of cultural and socio-economic diversity from which children enter into the portals of the schools. Individual aspirations in a competitive economy tend to reduce education to being an instrument of material success. The perception, which place the individual in exclusively competitive relationships, puts unreasonable stress on children, and thus distorts values. It also makes learning from each other a matter of little consequence. Education must be able to promote values that foster peace, humaneness and tolerance in a multicultural society. Any system seeks to provide a framework within which teachers and schools can choose and plan experiences that they think children should have. In order to realize education objectives, the curriculum should be conceptualized as a

structure that articulates required experiences. For this, it should address some basic questions: (a) What educational purposes should the schools seek to achieve? (b) What educational experiences can be provided that are likely to achieve these purposes? (c) How can these educational experiences be meaningfully organized? (d) How do we ensure that these educational purposes are indeed being accomplished? The review of the National Curriculum Framework, 2000 was initiated specifically to address the problem of curriculum load on children. A committee appointed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in the early 1990s had analysed this problem, tracing its roots to the system’s tendency to treat information as knowledge. In this report, learning Without Burden, the Committee pointed out that learning at school can not become a joyful experience unless we change our perception of the child as a receiver of knowledge and move beyond the convention of using textbooks as the basis for examination. Guiding Principles (2005) We need to plan and pay attention to systemic matters that will enable us to implement many of the good ideas that have already been articulated in the past. Paramount among these are: Connecting knowledge to life outside the school, Ensuring that learning is shifted away from rote methods, Enriching the curriculum to provide for overall development of children rather that remain textbook centric, Making examination more flexible and integrated into classroom life and, Nurturing an over-riding identity informed by caring concerns within the democratic polity of the country. In the present context, there are new developments and concerns to which our curriculum must respond. (i)

The foremost among these is the importance of including and relating all children in school through a programme that reaffirms the value of each child and enables all children to experience dignity and the confidence to learn. In this context, disadvantages in education arising from inequalities of gender, caste, language, culture, religion or disabilities need to be addressed directly, not only through policies and schemes but also through the design and selection of learning tasks and pedagogic practices.

(ii) Chi ldren acqui re vari ed skil l s natu ral ly whi l e growi ng u p i n thei r environment. They also observe life and the world around them. When imported into classrooms, their questions and queries can enrich the curriculum and make it more creative. Such reforms will also facilitate the practice of the widely acknowledged curricular principles of moving from “known to the unknown”, from “concrete to abstract”, and from “local to global”. (iii) Making children sensitive to the environment and the need for its protection is another important curricular concern. The emergence of new technological choices and living styles witnessed during he last century has led to environmental degradation and vast imbalances between the advantaged and the disadvantaged. It has become imperative now more that ever before to nurture and preserve the environment. Education can provide the necessary perspective on how human life can be reconciled with the crisis of the environment so that survival, growth and development remain possible. The National Policy on Education, 1986 emphasised the need to create awareness of environmental concerns by integrating it in the educational process at all stages of education and for all sections of society. (iv) Living in harmony within oneself and with one’s natural and social environment is a basic human need. Sound development of an individual’s personality can take place only in an ethos marked by peace. A disturbed natural and psycho-social environment often leads to stress in human relations, triggering intolerance and conflict. We live in an age of unprecedented violence-local, national, regional and global. Education often plays a passive, or even insidious role, allowing young minds to be indoctrinated into a culture of intolerance, which denies the fundamental importance of human sentiments. Building a culture of peace is an incontestable goal of education. Education to be meaningful should empower individuals to choose peace as a way of life and enable them to become managers rather than passive spectators of conflict. Place as an integrative perspective of the school curriculum has the potential of becoming an enterprise for healing and revitalizing the nation. (v) India is a multicultural society made up of numerous regional and local cultures. People’s religious beliefs, ways of life and their understanding of social relationships are quite distinct from one another. All the groups have equal rights to co-exist and flourish, and the education system needs to respond to the cultural pluralism inherent in our society. To strengthen our cultural heritage and national identity, the curriculum should enable the younger generation to reinterpret and re-evaluate the past with reference to new priorities and emerging outlooks of a changing societal context. The Quality Dimension The issue of quality presents a new range of challenges. The quality dimension also needs to be examined from the point of view of the experiences designed for

the child in terms of knowledge and skills. The representation of knowledge in textbooks and other materials needs to be viewed from the larger perspective of the challenges facing humanity and the nation today. No subject in the school curriculum can stay aloof from these larger concerns, and therefore the selection of knowledge proposed to be included in each subject area requires careful examination in terms of socioeconomic and cultural conditions and goals. Meeting this challenge implies that we make quality and social justice the central theme of curricular reform. A clear orientation towards values associated with peace and harmonious coexistence is called for. Quality in education includes a concern for quality of life in all its dimensions. This is why a concern for peace, protection of the environment and a predisposition towards social change must be viewed as core components of quality, not merely as value premises. The Social Context of Education The education system does not function in isolation from the society of which it is a part. Hierarchies of caste, economic status and gender relations, cultural diversity as well as the uneven economic development that characterize Indian society also deeply influence access to education and participation of children in school. But at the same time, globalisation and the spread of market relations to every sphere of society have important implications for education. Business Studies Syllabi and Textbooks The syllabi and textbooks in commerce have been prepared according to the principles of the National Curriculum Framework. 1.

The chapter on Social Responsibility of Business discusses how a business unit has to take care of the society of which it is a part. Every business needs to act in a socially desirable manner and respect its employees, the community and the environment in which it operates. Our objective is to sensitise the student to social issues and concerns and the fact that business can do a lot for society, while fulfilling its social obligation. Environmental Protection also forms part of the chapter where conservation and industrial pollution are discussed. Business Ethics is also included to make students aware of ethical and responsible behaviour of a business. This also instills in a student value of personal ethics and standards and a code of conduct which can be applied in personal life also. Interrelationships however between business ethics and individual ethics need to be drawn by the teachers.

2.

The global and local perspective and rural development needs to be taken care of. Small Business has been included in the syllabus and covers tiny and cottage industries and assistance to business provided by the government to small business in rural and hilly areas. We would also alike to mention the

reasons of including this in the syllabus. Rural Development and growth is a priority area and has been given a special emphasis in the latest 5 year plans and all documents pertaining to economic development. In fact, marketers are depending on the rural demand and markets. Examples from rural business have been given throughout the book to sensitise children to the rural aspect of the country. Local perspective needs em ph as is as a stu d en t is alw ay s able to relate to h is/h er loc al surroundings, therefore, local examples are better understood by them. 3.

Connecting knowledge to life outside school. The environment in which a business operates forms an important aspect of management. A business unit has to constantly interact with the economic, political, legal and social environment. The business environment is dynamic in nature and examples can be taken from all around us, newspapers, business magazines, business TV programmes and the internet. Management has to respond to all these changes and this chapter has been specially included so that students are aware of what is going on in the economic, political, legal land social environment. A business has to analyse the environment before taking decisions.

4.

Projects, activities and case problems have also been included to ensue that learning is shifted from rote methods. Creativity is a value that needs to be fostered. At the end of each chapter projects, activities and case problems have been given.

5.

Boxes includes enrichment material taken from newspapers, business magazines and the internet. We hope these will enable students to connect te x tu a l k no wl edge to the bu si ne ss w o rl d. Stu dent s sh o u l d dr aw interrelationships between the text and the news in he print and electronic media. The Objective is to give students an idea of what is happening inside a business.

6.

We live in an age of unprecedented violence, local regional, national and global. Values of love, cooperation, non violence, peace are universal and need to be emphasisted again and again. Social equality and justice is an integral part of peace education. Our chapter on social responsibilities emphasizes social equality and justice but teachers need to revisit the concept and connect it to pleace in society. The topic on cooperative societies and international business are based on the spirit of cooperation. Cooperation as a value needs to be reemphasised by teachers and then lead the student to imbibe the value of cooperation. International agreements, WTO and GATT are all based in inter national cooperation. Since management involves doing work systematically and resolving conflict situations, while we are teaching management we can revisit the idea of maintaining peace and harmony within an organization. Coordination of activities ensures harmonious relationships which is what management does. For example, in Directing, we discuss

motivation which again is related to peace and harmony. The teacher in the class needs to draw interconnections between the text and values of peace and non-violence. This has become almost an essential and moral duty of every teacher. 7.

India is a multicultural society and all groups have equal rights to coexist and flourish. In our texts we have tried to give business examples from all regions. When the social environment of business is taught then certain examples can be taken up so that students have a fair idea of the pluralistic society in which we live.

8.

Any economic development affects the Financial Market and ultimately every business unit in some way or the other. The role of major financial institutions and banks are becoming prominent in the financial markets. The fluctuations in the capital market are due to a variety of reasons. How the political, economic and social changes affect the markets can be studied, it will be going beyond the textbook. However, students will find it very interesting. These topics are important, current issues and students need to be aware of such topics as they shape the country’s future and economic development. In fact, the whole would is looking at India and China since they are relatively strong economies because of the regulatory mechanisms in the financial markets.

CHAPTER 2

TEACHING LEARNING STRATEGIES Effective learning is an active rather than a passive endeavor. Learner centered education requires interactive teaching.- Placing students in settings in which they are challenged to think critically and to articulate their thoughts and experiences through continual engagement with their peers, their teachers and their community. The most powerful models of teaching are interactive. Teaching should encourage the learner to construct and produce knowledge in meaningful ways. Situations should be created where students teach others interactively and interact generatively with their teacher and peers. This allows for co-construction of knowledge, which promotes engaged learning that is problem, project and is goal based. Some common strategies included in engaged learning models of instruction are individual and group summarizing, means of exploring multiple perspectives, techniques for building upon prior knowledge, brainstorming, Socratic dialogue, problem- solving processes and team teaching. Commitment to learning-centered teaching requires that teachers be both resources and resource guides. They must be designers of educational opportunities- occasions for learning; they must also help students to structure their learning to be compatible with their personal goals and to take advantage of the best that the world has to offer. For this scholarship, and collegiality, ant that orients them to the goals and purposes of education. Learning –centered education requires new and different resources. Classroom teaching remains vital, though it is less frequently the means to transmit information. The role of the teacher in the classroom has shifted from the primary role of information giver to that of facilitator, guide and learner. As a facilitator, the teacher provides the rich environments and learning experiences needed for collaborative study. The teacher is also required to act as a guide- a role that incorporates mediation, modeling and coaching. Often the teacher is also a co-learner and coinvestigator with the students. Students learn best when they are engaged in a variety of ways of learning. Business Studies and Accountancy courses lend themselves to a wide range of approaches in that they require students to discuss issues, solve problems, participate in business simulations, conduct research, think critically, work cooperatively and make business decisions. When students are engaged in active and experiential learning strategies, they tend to retain knowledge for longer periods and to develop meaningful skills. Active and experiential learning strategies also enable students to apply their knowledge and skills to real life issues and situations.

One important role of student that is gaining currency now days is that of explorer. Interaction with the physical world and with other people allows students to discover concepts and apply skills. Students should be encouraged to reflect upon their discoveries, which is essential for them as a cognitive apprentice. Apprenticeship takes place when students observe and apply the thinking processes used by practitioners. Students also become teachers themselves by integrating what they’ve learned. Hence they become producers of knowledge, capable of making significant contributions to the world’s knowledge. Often students jump into an activity with little prior instruction in order to stimulate their curiosity, become familiar with the instructional materials, and formulate early understandings of the task. Students can then reflect upon ideas and revise, reorganize and expand upon their understandings with further knowledge, exploration and debriefing. Learning takes place when students observe, apply and through practice- refine their thinking processes so that they increasingly formulate more powerful questions, problems and solutions, moving toward greater expertise. By reflecting across a diverse range of tasks, students come to identify common elements in their experiences. This enables them to generalize their skills and transfer their learning to new situations. Given the diverse opportunities and challenges present in education, teachers are often co-learners and co-investigators right alongside students. That is, as teachers and students participate in investigations with practicing professionals, they increasingly need to explore new frontiers and become producers of knowledge in knowledge-building communities. Indeed, there will be times, especially as technology advances, when students are the teachers and teachers are the learners. Some Basic Premises Learning does not take place only in the formal system. The formal system is not the only education system. Family and the media are also education systems. What matters is learning, more than education in itself. Not all education or teaching results in learning. In fact, there can be teaching without learning; teachers or parents who teach, an pupils or children who do not learn. There can also be learning without teaching for example, learning which is the result of observing, reading a book, working, solving a problem, watching a film, taking, exchanging experiences, taking part in a debate, travelling etc. There are many loci for learning: home, the school system, nature, the street, the community, the workplace, the religious place, the group of friends, the media, the library, the computer and the Internet, etc. And there are many ways of learning: games, reading, experience, observation, reflection, conversation, practice, trial and error, self-instruction, etc. All these sources are important and complementary in ensuring meaningful learning throughout the life of individuals and groups. Teachers need to be aware of these realities and utilize them for optimizing learning of their students.

Teachers must provide a wide range of activities and assignments that encourage mastery of basic concepts and development of inquiry/research skills. To make their programs interesting and relevant, they must help students to relate the knowledge and skills gained to issues and situations in the business world. It is essential to emphasize the relationship of business studies to the world outside the school to help students recognize that what they are studying is not just a school subject but also a reality that profoundly affects their lives, their communities and the world. Some of the teaching and learning strategies that are suitable to material taught in business studies are the use of case studies and simulations, teamwork, brainstorming, mind mapping, problem solving, decision making, independent research, personal reflection, seminar presentations, direct instructions, and hands-on applications. In combination, such approaches promote the acquisition of knowledge, foster positive attitudes towards learning and encourage students to become lifelong learners. Students’ attitudes towards business studies can have a significant effect on their achievement and expectations. Teaching methods and learning activities that encourage students to recognize the value and relevance of what they are learning goes a long way towards motivating students to work and learn effectively. It is important that consideration should be giving to include student conferences, visits from a range of guest speakers with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and trips to local businesses. Students develop a better understanding of various aspects of the study of business when they can see and experience actual examples of what they are studying. Such experiences also give them a better appreciation of the unique features of the business communities that affect their daily lives. The complex nature of business today, influenced by the restructuring of the economy, rapid advances in technology, and the globalization of the marketplace, requires that students be given varied opportunities to learn about current business realities and practices. By ensuring that students engage in experiential learning and real world applications, teachers can help them develop the practical, current business knowledge and skills they need. The training programme should aim at enabling teachers to develop lessons that are creative, dynamic and challenging for students. Teachers routinely complain that they do not have enough time to explain anything in detail, or to organize activities in the classroom. ‘Covering the syllabus’ seems to have become an end in itself, unrelated to the philosophical and social aims of education. The manner in which the syllabus is ‘covered’ in the average classroom is by means of reading the prescribed textbook aloud, with occasional noting of salient points on the blackboard. Opportunities for children to carry out experiments, excursions, or any kind of observations are scarce even in the best of schools. In an average school, especially the school located in a rural area, even

routine teaching of the kind described above does not take place in many cases. In several states, school teachers encourage children to attend after-school tuition given for fee while regular classroom teaching has become a tenuous ritual. However the situation is changing now. Schools across the nation are responding to political, economic, social and technological pressures to be more responsive to students needs and more concerned about how well students are prepared to assume future societal roles. Teachers are already feeling the pressure to lecture less, to make learning environments more interactive, to integrate technology into the learning experience and to collaborative learning strategies when appropriate. Active learning has become order of the day. Active learning can be thought of as learning environments that allow students to talk and listen, read, write and reflect as they approach course content through problem-solving exercises, informal small groups, simulations, case studies, role playing and other activities—all of which require students to apply what they are learning. Research supports the view that learning is enhanced when students become actively involved in the learning process. Teaching strategies that engage students in the learning process stimulate critical thinking and a greater awareness of other perspectives. Problem Solving Approach The problem –solving approach to teaching and learning has evolved from the theories of John Dewey. It has been used especially in commerce education as a way to relate classroom learning to real- life situations or problems. A problem is any situation where you have an opportunity to make a difference, to make things better; and problem solving is converting an actual current situation (the NOW –state) into a desired future situation (the-GOAL-state). Whenever you are thinking creatively and critically about ways to increase the quality of life (or avoid a decrease in quality), you are actively involved in problem solving. When problems interfere with our basic needs of life, or obstacles stand between what we desire and reality, we are receptive to solutions that enable us to reach our goals. Problem solving represents an approach to teaching that provides students with the opportunity to move from declarative (facts and beliefs), contextual (knowledge about business) and procedural ( knowledge about business processes) knowledge to more complex cognitive processes like problem solving, critical thinking, and decision making as a business person. Students also learn to solve familiar problems with strategies that can be used to solve unfamiliar problems in the future. The problem solving approach to teaching should not be confused with individual teaching method or technique; it is an approach to teaching that utilizes many methods while focusing on problems to be solved, decisions to be made, situations to be improved and reasoned thinking.

Problem Solving for Teaching and Learning Problem solving approach may have six steps listed below:(1) Identification of the Problem situation: What is happening? (2) Definition of the Problem: What must be done? (3) Search for information: What do we need to know? (4) Analysis of Data: What are the important considerations? (5) Testing possible solutions: What will happen if this action is followed? (6) Conclusion: What action is most promising? The Problem-Solving method of teaching incorporates problem- solving activities, but places the responsibility for learning on the student. It requires teachers to move from the traditional instructional model to one that engages teachers and students as partners in learning, with the teacher functioning in the role of facilitator or coach rather than leader or all-knowing authority. It requires the use of problems that have real meaning to students, thus motivating them to reach a solution/ There are four critical features of problem-based learning: 1.

Engagement. The problem raises concepts and principles relevant to the content area and addresses real issues that connect to the larger social context of the students’ personal world.

2.

Inquiry. The problem is ill-structured in that is has no one right answer. It often changes as more information is found. It requires exploration to define and refine the question and ideas surrounding the problem.

3.

Solution building. In problem-based learning, solutions are generated by the students who are the problem solvers; teachers are the coaches. As problem solvers, students engage in observation, inquiry and investigation into hypotheses and issues, and they formulate conclusions that are consistent with the nature of the problem. As coaches, teachers promote learning by acting as models, demonstrating behaviors they want their students to adopt. They prompt students to take ownership of the problem and responsibility for its solution, and then fade into the background.

4.

Reflection. Assessments, as authentic companions to the problem, offer a structure for reflection. They focus on the complexity of both the reasoning process and the subject matter concepts within the problem, providing standards to act as benchmarks for thinking. For effective use of a problem-solving or problem-based approach to teaching and learning, teachers will have to alter (1) the balance of power in the classroom, (2) the focus of attention, and(3) their teaching skills (Flowers 1992).

Tips for teachers Framework The purpose of the representation step is to help students organize the data, define the problem and identify key issues. In this phase, teachers might ask students to: Frame the problem in their own words. Define key terms and concepts. Determine statements that accurately represent the givens of the problem. Identify analogous problems. Determine what information is needed to solve the problem. For example, if the students are to be taught about consumer protection. They may be told to frame the problem like,’ When did thy feel thay were cheated as consumers?’ ‘How did they feel?’ ‘What did they do?’ ‘What could have been done?’ In the solution phase, one develops and then implements a coherent plan for solving the problem. As you help students with this phase, you might ask them to: Identify the general model or procedure they have in mind for solving the problem Set sub-goals for solving the problem. Identify necessary operations and steps. Draw conclusions. Carry out necessary operations. The students may now be asked to give their views what would they have done if they encountered the same problem. They may then be told to find out optimal way of handling the problem with justification why they thought the way suggested by them being the optimal way. In a ll cases, the more teachers get the students to articulate their own understandings of the problem and potential solutions, the more they can help them develop their expertise in approaching problems. Strategies A few different ways in which one can introduce a problem to students include: Demonstrate a problem solution by systematically explaining each step and its rationale.

Ask the students how thy would approach solving the problem. Ask the students to help you solve the problem by posing questions at key points in the process. Have the students work together in small groups (3 to 5 students) to solve the problem, and then have the solution presented to the rest of the class ( either by the teacher or by a student in the group). Let us take another example. The students may be provided with annual reports of 3-4 companies. On the basis of these reports they may be asked to take decidion regarding investment in these companies. They m a y b e provided witrhsome imaginary amount which can be utilized by them as investors (equity holders, creditors etc.).They may be required to evaluate their decisions on the parameters of return they are getting security they are enjoying etc. The decisions with justifications can be presented to the rest of the class. Another situation may be that they may collect documents from a business say of a sole proprietor and convert it into accounting information to prepare financial statements from it. Illustrative Case Problems with Tentative Suggested Solutions Following are case problems taken from curriculum of Management of class XII, unit on ‘Organizing’. The tentative suggested solutions can be arrived after following the steps listed above in the ‘Problem Solving Approach’ suitably adapted. It should be noted that the solution suggested is only tentative and may differ from student to student or when the exercise is actually undertaken in the class. Problem 1 A company, which manufactures a popular brand of toys, has been enjoying a good market reputation. It has a functional organizational structure with separate departments for Production, Marketing, Finance, HRD and R&D. Lately to use its brand name and also to cash on to new business opportunities it is thinking to diversify into manufacturing of new range of electronic toys for which a new market is emerging. Question Prepare a report regarding organizational structure giving concrete reasons with regard to benefits the company will derive from the steps it should take. Answer: Report Regarding Changes in Organisational Structure The company is into the business of manufacturing and marketing a popular brand of toys. It has e n j o y e d a good market reputation. It seems that is manufacturing a single/limited range of related toys. So it is following functional organizational structure.

A functional organization is structured according to functions instead of according to product lines. The various functional departments specialize in similar set of skills in separate units. For example finance department specializes in all finance jobs like procuring necessary funds, collecting receivables and loan negotiations etc. Thus this structure is best used when creating specific uniform products. A functional structure is well suited to organizations which have a single or dominant core product because each subunit becomes extremely adept at performing its particular portion of the process. They are economically efficient, but lack flexibility. Communication between functional areas can be difficult. Now in the face of changed circumstances when the company is preparing to cash on to the new business opportunities and to diversify into manufacturing of new range of electronic toys for which a new market is emerging, it has to pay attention to the various products/lines of products individually because of new complexities. Therefore the Company has to Reorganise Itself Into a Divisional Organisation. Each division will be a separate business unit and a profit centre. The divisional head will be responsible for performance of his/her unit and will have the authority to run the same. Each division is multifunctional because within each division functions like production, marketing, finance, R&D, and HRD are performed together to achieve a common goal. Each division is self contained as it develops expertise in all functions related to the product line. In the present case the toy company may have minimum two divisions namely manual toys and electronic toys. Benefits to the Company The company will derive the following benefits from changing over to divisional organizational structure: a.

It will help the divisional head to develop varied skills and helps him/her for higher positions. This is because he/she gains experience in all functions related to a particular product.

b.

Better per formance appraisal of each p r o d u c t / division, fixation of responsibility and appropriate remedial action is possible because revenues , costs and profits of each division is ascertainable easily. Also divisional heads are responsible for the performance of their division.

c.

It promotes flexibility and initiative because each division functions as an autonomous unit which leads to faster decision making.

d.

It facilitates expansion and growth as new divisions can be added without disrupting the existing operations by merely adding another divisional head and staff for a new product line. For example it is possible for the company in this case to add new electronic toys to the electronic toys division without disrupting its functioning.

Case Problem 2(taken From Unit On Financial Markets) ‘R’ Limited is a real estate company which was formed in 1950. In about 60 years of its existence the company has managed to carve out a niche for itself in this sector. Lately, this sector is witnessing a boom due to the fact that the Indian economy is on the rise. The incomes of middle class are rising. More people can afford to buy homes for themselves due to easy availability of loans and accompanying tax concessions. To expand its business in India and abroad the company is weighing various options to raise money through equity offerings in India. Whether to tap equity or debt market, whether to raise money from domestic market or international market of a combination of both? Whether to raise necessary finance from money market or capital market? It is also planning to list itself in New York Stock Exchange to raise money through ADR’s. To make its offerings attractive it is planning to offer host of investment plans to its stakeholders and investors and also expand its listing at NSE after complying with the regulations of SEBI. Questions 1.

What benefits will the company derive from listing at NSE?

2.

What are the regulations of SEBI that the company must comply with?

3.

How does the SEBI exercise control over ‘R’ Limited in the interest of investors?

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: What benefits will the company derive from listing at NSE? Answer: The company will derive the following benefits from listing at NSE:a.

Access to investors funds all over the country.

b.

Positive image of the company due to fulfillment of stringent legal requirements of NSE.

c.

Fair valuation of listed securities.

d.

Growth in goodwill and the consequent benefits

e.

Transparency in dealings due to NSE control and monitoring.

f.

Ease in raising funds.

Question 2: What are the regulations of SEBI that the company has to comply with? Answer: For listing on NSE the company has to fulfill regulations relating to:a. b.

Registration with SEBI. Appointment of merchant bankers, underwriters, share transfer agents, debenture trustees, registrars to the issue, bankers to the issue & Depository Participants.

c.

Credit rating if required to do so.

d.

Disclosure and investor protection.

e.

Equity listing agreement.

Question 3: How does the SEBI exercise control over ‘R’ Limited in the interest of investors? Answer: SEBI exercises control over the company in the interest of investors in the following ways:a.

Prohibiting insider trading in securities.

b.

Regulating substantial acquisition of shares and takeover of companies.

c.

Calling for information and conducting inspections and audits of the company and all the parties relating to securities market.

d.

Performing functions and exercising powers under law.

e.

Levying fees and other charges.

f.

Conducting research and informing investors regarding precautions and steps they should take while dealing in the securities market and with the company per se.

Teaching Through Activities Projects and Games People from business and accounting profession have started expressing concern over the academic preparation of businesspersons and accountants. The students graduating from commerce stream are neither able to deal with modalities of business nor able to write or analyze accounts of real business houses. Professional groups and educators alike have called for educational reform that provides students with the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to succeed in the accounting profession and business of the 21 st century. This may require that students be exposed to real world and encouraged to become active participants in the learning process. Students may mimic the accounting and financial reporting processes found in the ‘real world’ through their conduct of analytical reviews, information solicitation, preparation of adjusting entries and drafting complete sets of financial statements. This may require abandoning the lecture format of teaching and employing creative approaches, which are creative and allow learner to be active in the learning process constructing knowledge for them. Basic task of teachers should be to help the students learn from thinking. Observing, making meanings from real life situations rather than be dependent on teachers and textbooks. This view would promote teaching through activities; games etc. that do not promote the participation of students but also help them to socially negotiate a common understanding of the task and the methods. People naturally seek opinions and ideas from others. Activities can support this conversational process by connecting the learners with each other. According to

the constructivist learning principles, instruction should not focus on transmitting plans to the learner but rather on developing the skills of the learner to construct (and reconstruct) plans in response to situational demands and opportunities. Thus, teaching should provide contexts and assistance tht will aid the individual in making sense of the environment as it is encountered. Emphasis should be shifted from the retrieval of intact knowledge structures to support the construction of new understandings. Learners should be able to bring together from various knowledge sources an appropriate ensemble of information suited to the particular problem-solving needs of the situation at hand. An Illustration of a Business Game( Investing in Stock Market with Virtual Cash) Objectives This game will fulfill the following objectives:1.

To make the pupil aware of the mechanics of the stock market.

2.

To create interest in the stock market.

3.

To supplement the classroom teaching and make it real life.

Required Materials 1.

Any news paper containing stock market quotes of NSE or BSE.

2.

Some stationery as per actual format adopted.

3.

Web access (0ptional)

Format of the Game The class can be divided into groups or the game can also be played individually. Methodology The students can be divided into groups as per convenience. Each group can be assigned virtual cash of say Rs. 10 lacs. Then each group can be asked to make imaginary sales or purchases and construct a portfolio. The students in each group should be encouraged to work together. This game is played over a period of one week to several months. The progress of each group can be discussed in class. Other students can ask questions which the group members have to answer. The questions can relate to reasons for selecting a particular share/security for buying or selling. Each week groups can be graded on the basis of gain made. The same methodology can be used if the game is played individually. Web support if available can be used to access some of the following websites:1.

www.khelostocks.com

2.

www.money.rediff.com

3.

www.moneycontrol.com

4.

www.sensex.com

5.

www.nseindia.com (National stock exchange of India)

6.

www.bseindia.com (Mumbai Stock exchange)

7.

www.sebi.gov.in (Securities and Exchange Board of India)

8.

www.india.gov.in (National Portal Of India)

These websites give actual stock quotations. The game can also be played online on websites at serial nos. 1 to 4. The websites at serial numbers 5 to 8 give the actual quotations as well as regulations and other information which will be use ful to students and teachers to supplement the game resources and derive actual life/Professional/Business lessons. Summarizing and Feedback Each week during the discussions and grading of performance the teacher can discuss the lessons learnt by various groups. This will help to realize the objectives as mentioned above. The use of websites will be really useful as it will impart a touch of real life situations and will also lead to development of employability/ entrepreneurship skills. Supplementary Resources for Business Games The teachers can also use www.google.com to search online business games which are available free and play them with the students. These will help the students to gain much interest and knowledge/skills which will help them in class learning as well as contribute to success in life besides creating interest. Other Forms of Games Business games can also be played in the form of puzzles, cross words, quiz or role play etc. Case Study Approach The term “Case Study” and “Case Method” are sometimes used interchangeably. However “Case Study” is also used in research to means the in-depth study of a problem or situation, whether or not it has direct implications for practice. ‘Case Method’ on the other hand, almost, always refers to a method of instruction based on real life examples. The case method was developed by Christopher Lang dell of Harvard’s Law School in 1880 and later introduced into Harvard’s is still most closely identified with the case method though it has been adopted and adopted by many other fields, for example, medicine, social work, engineering, theology, communication and management development.

‘Case Studies’ stimulate the real world, since case can be written at varying levels of complexity, they can be used with both the relatively inexperienced and the highly sophisticated learner, case are frequently used in business and other organizations to orient new employees and to teach a range of managerial, sales, marketing and personnel skills. Thus, in a sense, case studies can be used to teach anyone. It takes much time to prepare so should be used in required contexts. Case studies sharpen analytical skills and make them “think like” people. The “How” of Case Studies: Design, Use and Evaluation Besides the clear objectives, mode and method, there are some consideration unique to the case method. 1.

Focusing on the Case: The case has to be real, typical, complex and researchable. Its critical ingredients are a statement and factual content. Cases must be researched sufficiently to be believable, even when they are hypothetical composites based on different situations. Much information can be gathered by reviewing such documents and relevant reports as minutes of meetings, policy documents, personnel files that are not confidential and other trading materials.

2.

Dramatizing Real Life: The case must be developed dramatically to represent a slice of life with which the learners want to identify. The case is intended to stimulate the thinking of learners. Thus, it should end at a dramatic leaving the learners with a challenge to which they must respond.

3.

Designing the Learner: The case should be written with the learners in mind, and what it is they should most gain from this activity, Guidelines for case analysis would be open-ended to stimulate the learner’s discovery instincts. The learner should be allowed to take the lead in exploring the problem and its alternative solutions to stimulate real-life conditions.

4.

Designing to the mode of Delivery: The case should be written with the mode of delivery in mind. Cases require that one should allow enough time for people to fully understand the nature of the problem and the situation. Because so much reliance is put on the learner, the designer should make sure that the experience level required for the case analysis matches that of the learner or they will quickly become frustrated. Case requires that you allow enough time for people to fully understand the nature of the problem and the situation .if you have only one class period, case study should be no more than 2 pages in length.

5.

Developing Support Materials: Materials should include teaching notes to ensure that the problems and issues are classified, to help groups decide on criteria by which they should make decisions, to supplement the rationale for the for the actual solution and indentify relevant concepts that can be used to interpret group findings.

6.

Revising & Field Testing: A good case must be complete but not overly detailed. It should be clear but not simplistic, strong like but believable, case must therefore be revised and field tested to ensure that it accomplished its aim within the desired time period. Using Case Studies

Managing the Case Introduce the case and relate it to the experience of the learners as well as its purposes and placement in the course. Explain the mode to be use in the case straight, simultaneous or an incidental process. Explain procedures to be used in analyzing the case and check the learners understand instructions. As the groups rotate among them to answer questions and check on their understanding of the issues. In debriefing the case, start by asking groups/ students to report on their understanding of the case detail and the problem or issues involved in the decision. In concluding the case, you will want learner to sum up the learning parts from the case. As you wind down the discussion, make sure that these “learning” are related to concepts covered in the course. Evaluating Case Studies Evaluation will depend upon the purpose and objectives. Evaluation at +2 level can also be oriented to in-depth self development. Ask each person to list the information and skills he or she has gained, and the areas in which he/she still feel a need for improvement. Also make sure that everyone participates equally. The strength of the case study is that it emphasizes practical thinking. Though the case method, learners both identify principles after examining the facts and apply those principles to new situations. They, learn to formulate problems as well as solve them. As in real life, learners must make decisions under time pressure with an inadequate stock of information. However, because they are in a laboratory situation they have time to reflect and think more critically than they might under pressure. Case Discussion can question the notion that there is “one right answer” and broaden the learner by encouraging a wide range of viewpoints different from other and also participatory in nature. One disadvantage of case study can be that it may take long time to prepare and long time for learner to fully comprehend. Case Study Method has become very important in today’s context when business has changed so dynamically responding to changing methods & Operations. A ‘case’ can be taken from real business experience relevant to the topic and context and many teaching points

and situations can be easily simulated in the class-room. The facts are too presented as it is and after discussion, the various aspects of the case can be explored by questions at the end of the case. The objectives that Business Studies will prepare students to analyze, manage, evaluate and respond to charges which affect business can be very easily and interestingly brought in the classroom by ‘case study’ method. It will help students in making the transition from school to the world of work including self employment and a acquaint students with the practice of managing the operations of a business firm. Case Study of Telecom Sector and Business Environment This case study is an example of how businesses in the telecom sector gets affected by changes in technology and the business environment. A. TRAI rules In May, 2010, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had introduced new rules which could be difficult for the existing top mobile phone companies. Licensing rules had been overhauled and TRAI wanted operators holding more than 6.2 Mhz of 2G Airwaves spectrum to pay a one time fee or rates determined during the on going auction of 3G frequencies. The 3G spectrum auction was also on and the bid price for a pan-India licence touched Rs.11,045 crore/Rs.15,416 crore. The government is expected to earn at least Rs.62,253.83 crore, much more than their estimates of Rs.35 crore. B. Effect on shares The issue before the telecom sector was when TRAI announced new licensing rules for 2G spectrum, the companies would have to pay more for the license. Bharti-

Rs.5100 crore

Vodafone

Rs.3591 crore

Idea Cellular

Rs.1262 crore

BSNL and MTNL-

Rs.8027 crore

This had an effect on their shares. Bharti AIR TEL and Idea Cellular Shares fell by more than 8% on BSE on 12 May 2010. Their shares have fallen more than a fifth this year compared to a 1.5% decline in the bench mark sensex. This sector is already undergoing a tariff war and these fluctuations in the prices of their shares on the Stock Exchange severely harm the industry. Vodafone also had reduced spending in India by Rs.14,600 crore because of price wars triggered by stiff competition, spectrum payments and tax a payment of 2 billion dollars. TRAI had announced that there was going to be no impact, and it will not affect operating profits/tariffs. But, actually 2G licences will be renewed at another

price and companies will have to pay a premium of 30% over the 3G rates. This is how government policies and regulatory mechanisms affect business and they have to immediately change their strategies. Because of change in technology the Telco companies will incur a huge cost for shifting customers to the new frequency band and deploying networks to work on these new airwaves. C. Technological Environment The technological environment in the telecom sector is never constant. The 2G spectrum i.e. II generation technology had some limitations; it had a low data rate, it was designed for telephone applications and the error rate was high. The 3G spectrum advantages: Download heavy files voice and non voice data conference calls/video calls mobile TV, multiplayer, online games Increase in speed, E-commerce will be 5 times faster cash transitions, bill payments Higher band width network. There are some mobile phones which have the facility option already; Nokia, Samsung, Sony, Motorola, Blackberry. 3G was introduced first in Japan which has already gone to 4G The 3G revolution’s impact on companies Opportunities for telecom gear manufacturers Operators will focus on subscriber acquisition and retention. Impact on Operating Support Services (OSS) and Business Support Services (BSS) strategies. The total market of OSS-BSS is Rs.2800 crores: Can develop platforms that support local based advertising Targeted Advertising by customer profiles and subscriber profiling. Operators to focus on Delivering services in attractive packages Service velocity Automated Service Velocity

Competitive Differentiation Road map based on market study Right infrastructure platform D Financial Impact on companies Companies have paid a very high price for 3G. Will they be able to justify it? Telecom players expect the revenue to go up to 12% from the present 10%. All operators have very high debt levels except Bharti, MTNL and BSNL. Companies will have to: -

protect their subscriber base

-

create new markets

-

move 30% of high revenue generating customer to 3G. Growth of revenues will be very slow. The industry needs an increase of 2030% in revenues and 30-40% EBITDA from 3G launches to justify this investment (EBITDA-Ear nings before Income Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation) It will strain the Balance Sheets of Companies for 3 years. The 3 G pay out will have a multiyear earnings dilution impact in 2011,2012 and 2013 for Bharti, Reliance and Idea Cellular. Telecom stocks will be affected in the share market.

E International Market In 2000-high bidding for 3 G Auctions UK raised $35.4 billion Germany raised $46.1 billion In USA-3G bidding led to secondary reselling, business failures and bidding inflation Europe -

Operators overcharged for services

-

Companies incurred big debts to pay for multibillion dollar deals

-

Share prices fell as a result

-

Cascading effect on other European 3G Auctions.

Poland -

had to cancel auction as failed to get minimum 5 candidates

-

gave only 3 licences to 3 leading wireless operators

Switzerland -

auction raised only $120 million through 4 operators

-

Government expected $ 4-5 billion

-

Postponed the auction

Italy -

5 bidders paid only the minimum opening bid of 2.2 billion each.

Dutch and Austrian markets was a big flop France-In 2001, Deutche Telecom and Hutch Telecom did not bid at all after spending heavily in Germany and UK. Teachers’ Note: Cases given in textbooks and also through other sources like newspaper, magazines, internet etc can be discussed and analyzed. Project Method ‘Project Method’ is a typical example of method which endorses the “Principle of Learning by doing” We can discuss the following steps in organizing projects: 1.

Proposal by student

2.

Planning

3.

Execution and

4.

Judgment

In each step, the student acts under the skilful and wise guidelines of teacher. The students may be asked to have projects on: Local survey of village handicrafts in a rural economy (small scale industries), socio economic status of village community, the impact and availability of credit faculties by banks on the development of village crafts. Survey of quality of ‘Bank Services’ in the local branch office in the students respective areas can also be taken as project. Study of postal and courier mail services, survey of popularity of credit cards issued by different banks, study if working of any co-operative society, study of any franchise retail store, problems of women entrepreneurs in business etc are other areas for project work. Scrapbook can also be prepared and articles can be collected on the changing role of Public sector or any other topic related to the syllabus. In class XI, Business study Unit-12 deals with Project work and different parts of the projects report is also suggested as 1. Objectives 2. Methodology 3. Conclusionsfinding and suggestions. Introduction, need and rational can also be included in project report. Project is a practical approach which results in finishing a task through intellectual deliberations, group thinking individual participation and execution and evaluation of the task. According to socialist Prof. Kilpatrick. “A project is a whole hearted purposeful activity proceeding in a social environment’ this truly applies in teaching of business studies where projects are formulated

and executed by a whole hearted purposeful activity in a “Business Environment”. Forum, Panel and Symposiums Some definitions of Forum, Panel and Symposium can be learned for the better understanding of these methods. There are as many definitions of the forum, panel and symposium as there are writers who have examined each method. Some writers tend to note few differences among the methods and thus group them together, where as other writers suggest distinct difference, However for clarity each method is seen as distinct and same precision can be offered when using each term. A forum is best defined as a open discussion carried on by one or more resource persons and an entire group. It is used in a large 25-40 persons or more meet for the purpose of diffusion of knowledge, information or opinion. The forum tends to be semiformal in natural and is directed by a moderator. The moderator is responsible for guiding discussions during which audience is encouraged to raise and discuss issues, make comments, offer information or asks questions of the resource persons and each other. There are many variations of the forum which is why the methods are sometimes seem as identical social responsibility and Business Ethics have many aspects of society in which business operates. Responsibility towards owners, investors, employers, consumers, government, community and public in general can be taught in forum where 2-3 experts can be invited teacher can act as moderator and students can pose their queries, and classify their doubts. The concept and elements of business ethics in present context can also be presented and discussed in forum. Teachers of different sections of commerce stream can also act as team. A panel is defined as a small group of three to six persons who sit around a table in the presence of audience and have a purposeful conversation on a topic in which they have specialized knowledge. The panel is typically informal in nature, usually lasts under an hour, is guided by a moderator (teacher) who initiates and sustains the discussion and has no audience participation other than watching and listening. The panel is usually followed by a forum which does allow verbal participation by the audience. A symposium is defined as series of presentations given by two to five persons of notable authority and competence on different aspects of the same theme or closely related themes. These symposiums tend to be formal in nature because of the authoritative presentations. However, once the presentations are given, questions from the audience are encouraged and accepted. Usually speakers are limited to a maximum of twenty minutes each so that time for audience questions and comments can be included. Thus, most symposium run between sixty to ninety minutes in length.

It was very rightly stated by Herrick that “Commerce Education is that form of instruction that both directly and indirectly prepares the business man for his calling….” Teach Preparetion The role of teachers is a key one in the educational system. Any system of educational reorganization, curriculum charge, new innovations in teaching, techniques or evaluation has to be basically thought of in terms if teachers, the success of any new scheme in ecuation depends very largely on the “teachers on the job”. In the effective execution of the teaching skills, strategies and methods explained the vital of selection, collection and choice of instruction material cannot be overlooked. Teacher preparation is must for effective transaction of curriculum. In the following pages a brief exposure of Instruction, Material, lesson planning preparation and constructivist approach is given so that the spirit of NCF 2005 can reach the class rooms through you, teachers. Instructional materials: Instructional Materials aids to effect instructional procedures by the teacher. Preparation and use of these materials are the concerns of any teacher. Commerce is a field which is not to be reckoned with as an independent discipline unconnected with any other area of knowledge. In fact there cannot be any text book on ‘Business Studies’ which can immediately encompass the fast changing trends and practices in business. It is only in this context we should think of a need for instructional material besides text books such as reference material, community resources and current events, these materials are more-upto-date and more practical and relevant for the purpose of instruction. References Materials, Community resources and Newspaper Apart from the text books, the teacher should be fully conversant with other instructional material to keep him/her update with reference to recent trends. A text books is bound to become out of date, soon after publication since knowledge keeps on expanding so a teacher has to think of other sources of information and reference material for the teaching to be effective & contextual. Teachers Note Search for periodicals and journals and prepare their list. Government documents and reports Newspaper Book reviews Digest, supplementary books etc.

Internet websites & various search engines Newspaper are of vital importance current events are to be correlated to the teaching od Business studies. Price trends, Debates in parliament regarding the Economic Policy, Finance and Commerce Section, Share Market Trends, Market reports, Budget discussions, Assembly session Reports have all repercussions on Economic Studies. Many issues social and political have always relevance to economic development and growth trends in business & commerce. Moreover ‘Advertisements’ in newspaper enable students to have practical knowledge of the subject. Cartels, pools and other type of Business organization, Banking Systems, LIC, Public corporations, Reports by chairman of public and private companies etc give a lively interest to the study of theoretical aspects of commerce there add to the zest of children in seeking m o r e i nt i m at e an d pr a c ti c a l d e ta i l s a b o u t t he e co n o my o f I n di a . “Advertisement” studies also develop skills in writing slogans and loving publicity. Community Resource Mobilization from the point of view of teaching Business Studies we can also contact travel agencies, salesman of good trading concerns company, representatives, advertising agencies, distributing agencies, marketing consumers representative organization, directors of co-operative societies and banks, managers of banks, agents of LIC, director of transport corporation and public undertaking etc. In fact all those who are involved in trade and commercial tractions can be approached for sharing their real life experience. Teacher Note: Start with one complex unit and call the concerned person who can give practical real life experience with the class room. Newspapers: Surveys and Market Studies are equally important. In “THE HINDU’ & ECONOMICS TIMES’ which are prominent dailies in English you may find a special page for news of commercial importance such as1.

Finance-Commerce-Business News & Notes

2.

News from financial correspondents Dalal Street

3.

Share Price Movements in Chennai, Mumbai and Calcutta (Kolkata)

4.

Reserve Bank Revised Purchase Rates.

5.

Price of commodities such bas sugar, oil, seeds, cement, steel etc.

6.

Bullion Rates.

Bullion Market, spurts recession, slumps external parties, closing rates, opening rates, ‘Bear’ etc are terms technically used in the context of commercial dealings. Plastic money, credit rate, commercial papers, outsourcing, digital cash, Electronic Fund Transfers etc are other currently used terms. A clear meaningful

understanding is rendered through these reference materials only. Classes in “Business Studies can only be made lively by practical and real orientation to class-room teaching procedures. It is the academic accountability of competent organization to plan training programmes to familiar our teachers teaching at senior secondary level, the new changes that have been brought in new texts. In teaching of Business Studies in the changing business environment is a challenge for both teacher and student. A teacher has to update his/her knowledge continuously, be compete literate, should equip himself with modern vocabulary and processes, then only he will be able to do justice in his class-room teaching. Lesson Planning & Preparation Lesson planning is one of the most important component of all teacher training programmes. as teachers have to transact the curriculum in a given period of time which is spread over different terms, weeks, days, and periods. Every day teacher completes some content and the task becomes focused if he prepares his lesson or plans out the various teaching points, content, teaching methodology, Teaching –aids or instructional material. What kind of techniques he/she will apply in the class room for continuous evaluation, recapitulation or what kind of activities can be designed to introduce & develop the context. The innovative home assignments can also be planned in advance so that the class-room teaching becomes focused & interactive. There are many lesson plan formats, which are being followed during internship or teaching practice programme under teacher training courses. Teachers these days have less flexibility about what to teach as content prescribed drive the curriculum, but there is considerable choice in how to teach. Matching lesson plan formats to the content (what skills/knowledge are being taught) and context (who is being taught etc.) is an important component of good teaching. Following the spirit of constructivist approach/inquiry teaching & learning, it is notices that there are times when other approaches may be more appropriate given the needs & goals of situation. A general framework which may hold true for just about any lesson which is as under: 1.

Unit Title

2.

Specific objectives

3.

Rationale

4.

Content

5.

Instructional Procedures

6.

Teaching-learning material/use of instructional support material

7.

Evaluation procedures

The instructional procedures can be more constructivist: i,e. 1.

Introduction/Motivation

2.

Developing readiness

3.

Body of lesson

4.

Questioning

5.

Integration

6.

Closure

One other example of general form- This mentions these varied instructional strategies: Direct Instruction-teacher directed Guided discovery-student discovery Inquiry-series of divergent questions generate the learning. Group Process –co-operative groups think-pair squares, jigsawete. Project-research, presentation etc. that is done over a long period of time. Direct Instruction lesson plans are traditional lesson plan styles and these follow an assumption that learners need a sequence which includes direct teaching first, followed by practice which is increasingly independent. Two prominent names of this sort of instruction are mentioned i.e. Robert Gagne’s Instructional Sequences which appears as under: 1.

Gaining attention

2.

Expectancy: Informing the learner of the objective

3.

Memory Retrieval: stimulating recall of prerequisite learning

4.

Presenting stimulus material (selective perception)

5.

Providing learning guidance (encoding-storage strategies)

6.

Eliciting performance (responding)

7.

Providing feedback (reinforcement)

8.

Assessing Performance

9.

Enhancing retention & transfer (cueing retrieval)

Madeline Hunter’s instructional sequence is known as ITIP (Instructional Theory Practice) is probably the first thing most teachers think of when they hear “lesson plan”. In nutshell

ITIP is: 1.

Objectives

2.

Purpose

3.

Anticipatory

4.

Input

5.

Modeling

6.

Check for understanding

7.

Guided Practice

8.

Independent Practice

Constructivist Lesson plans / Inquiry oriented Instead of assuming that students need some sort of teaching in order to more toward practice and mastery, these types assume that well prepared lessons engage student interest and activate previous knowledge, following immediate exploration. A general outline of the instructional procedure of such lesson plans can be: 1.

Introduction phrase

2.

Puzzling/problem solving situation

3.

Da gathering / experimentation by students

4.

Hypothesizing and explaining

5.

Analyzing the inquiry process.

Chapter 3

Transaction of Themes

CHAPTER 3A

Mining Industry and Environment A Issues concerning Mining Indiscriminate and illegal mining causes extensive damage to livelihoods and environment 1.46 lakh hectares of forest land has been diverted for mining Iron-ore mining used up 77 million tonnes of water in 2005-06 (This is enough to meet daily needs of 3 million people) Is there a Regulatory Mechanism? Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Bill, 2010 by Ministry of Mines. Government is ineffective in regulation No rules and regulations -

In Orissa 215 out of 341 working mines are operating without clearance from Government.

-

In the Country-15000 illegal mines and 8700 legal mines with political and bureaucratic patronage Corporate, Industrial Houses and Political Nexus. Environmental, Social & Human Cost

-

Alienation of tribal and other indigenous people

-

Penetration of Maoists in the areas Impact of Mining on water

-

Affective natural surface water regime

-

Pumping of ground water

-

Decline of water table

-

Affective ground water recharge regime

-

Shallow and Deep acquifers

B Draft Bill The salient features of the New Bill are:(i)

Mining Lease though Auction

(ii) Stringent Measures for illegal mining (iii) Reservation of Areas for PSUs (No level playing field-corruption) (iv) Social content -

Assured annuity to local population as percentage of profit, 26% earned by mines

-

Resettlement and rehabilitation of local population

-

Employment

-

Skill enhancement

-

Compulsory consultation with Gram Sabha/Panchayats in tribal areas for grant of concessions.

-

Preference to tribal cooperatives

(v) Least damage to natural resources, air -water, soil, biomass, human community and life forms (vi) Mine Closure restoration of mining land to cultivability. C Cross purposes The Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Environment and Forests both have their valid arguments and need to come to some consensus to resolve the issue. Mining is a major thrust area to sustain (the proposed 8% growth rate is next 10 years) The Ministry of Environment and Forests wants more regulation in privatised mining Coal Ministry - The production of coal needs to be doubled in 10 years to sustain growing manufacturing sector. 70% of India Power Supply comes from Coal -

Sustainable growth rate of 8% over 10 years require the production of 90,000 megawatts 7 thermal power

-

Ministry plans to open 500 coal mines in addition to 60

-

Coalfields, Mapping, Forest Areas all these are issues that need to be resolved

-

Empirical Survey Weighted Forest Covers needs to be studied carefully

_

Steel, Power and Cement projects linked to coal blocks are severely affected by the move

-

Some mines in regions-declared No Go Zones. Chattisgarh has coal block to support 20 steel power and cement projects

-

5 billion tonnes of coal reserves in 18 blocks

-

projected capacity of 120 million tonnes to support a thermal production of 20,000 m.w.

·

Open Cast Mining leads to problems - maximum exploitation of nature and people and NO GO Areas are full of Naxalism and other issues.

Conclusion Industrialisation leads to development but Indian business has to consider the social cost and the degradation to the physical environment. The Government, the people of that area and the corporates need to come together on one platform and resolve the conflict. There are many big corporates like Vedanta, Jindals, Sterlite affected by such changes in the environment.

CHAPTER 3 B

Principles of Management Draft Plan of the Teaching Plan in Business Studies of Unit 2-principles of Management (Including all the Teaching Plans) Objective: The main objective of this draft is to design the actual lesson plan for the curriculum transaction of the content of unit-2 ‘Principles of Management’ according to the requirements of the periods allotted and weight age in the examination according to the constructivist approach. Period Wise Break Up of Subtopics to be Covered: Period

Sub topics to be covered

1.

Introduction, Opening case study on ‘Business Principles of Toyota Motor Corporation’

2.

Box on ‘Evolution of Management Principles’, concept of Principles of management.

3.

Nature of management Principles

4.

Significance of Principles of management

5.

Taylor’s Scientific management

6.

Principles of Scientific management

7.

T e c h n i q u e s o f S c i e n t i f i c m a n a g e m e n t - F u n c t i o n a l f or e m a n s h i p , Standardization and Simplification

8.

Work study including method study, time study, motion study and fatigue study.

9.

Differential Piece wage system, Mental revolution, Practical applications of Taylor’s Principles and techniques of scientific management.

10.

Fayol’s Principles of management- introduction, Principles of Division of work, authority and responsibility, discipline, unity of command and unity of direction

11.

Subordination of individual interest to general interest, remuneration of personnel, centralization, scalar chain and order.

12.

Equity, stability of tenure of personnel, initiative and Espirit de corps

13.

Fayol vs. Taylor - A comparison.

14.

Summarization and discussion of examination questions.

TEACHING PLAN OF DAY 1 Class: XII Unit : Principles of Management Topic: Opening case study on ‘Business Principles of Toyota Motor Corporation’ Learning Resources: Access to websites of TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION if possible and its display in the class through LCD projector for the benefit of the class Otherwise relevant pages of the websites can be displayed through use of pen-drive or a CD. Website to be accessed: 1. www.toyota.com and 2. w w w . t o y o t a . c o . j p / e n / v i s i o n / s u s t a i n a b i l i t y _ for_future/overview.html Objectives 1.

The students would be able to understand and feel the dynamics of principles of management as applicable to the company in practice before actually reading the text of these principles.

2.

The experience of the principles of management in practice will help the pupils to construct knowledge based on them.

3.

The use of Toyota website should create excitement and interest in the students for the subject. This will increase motivation to construct knowledge.

Previous Knowledge It is assumed that students have studied unit-1 of the curriculum ‘Nature and Significance of Management’ and are therefore aware of the definition of management, management as an art, science and profession , levels of management, Functions of management and nature of coordination. Text of the Case Study Toyota follows certain well-defined business principles guiding its functioning. These are: 1.

Honour the language and spirit of law of every nation and undertake open and fair corporate activities to be a good corporate citizen around the world.

2.

Respect the culture and customs of every nation and contribute to economic and social development through corporate activities in local communities.

3.

To provide clean and safe products and to enhance the quality of life everywhere.

4.

Create and develop advanced technologies and provide outstanding products and services that fulfill the needs of customers worldwide.

5.

Foster a corporate culture that enhances individual creativity and teamwork value, while honoring mutual trust and respect between management and labour.

6.

Pursue growth and harmony with global community through innovative management.

7.

Work with business partners in research and creativity to achieve stable, long-term growth and mutual benefits and be open to new partnerships.

These principles, will guide the company in its global vision 2010. This global vision envisages continuous innovations in future, use of environment friendly technologies, respecting and working with different sections of society and establishing an interactive relationship with society. Teacher Prepration Before the Class The teacher should visit the two websites of Toyota Motor Corporation before the class and prepare himself/herself to answer the questions likely to be asked by students. The teacher should also link the facts mentioned on the websites with the ones mentioned in the text of the case study above. This will prepare the teacher to conduct the class efficiently and effectively based on the principles of constructivism. Teacher Activities (1, 2& 3) 1.

The students would be shown the home page of the website of www.toyota.com. The students should be given a few minutes to watch the animated visuals and read the taglines therein. A few students should be given a chance to navigate on the website so that they can watch the pages which interest them. The student might put some questions to the teacher regarding the contents of the website. All of them should be answered with the help of other students as far as possible. The unanswered questions can be given as an assignment to the students and also to the teacher.

2.

Now after sufficient interest has been created among the students the teacher should come on the link ‘About the Company’ on the home page. The teacher should click the link and then navigate to the next link ‘our values’. The following values appear in animated form:-

a.

Our values are just like yours.

b.

We are hard working.

c.

We are active in our community.

d.

We care for environment.

e.

We celebrate our diversity.

f.

We are creating jobs.

g.

We make history.

h.

We make clean, green cars. Similarly the link ‘Our Commitment’ can also be accessed and all the animations shown to the students. The students should also be shown models or cars with photos on the website.

3.

The teacher should also access website no. 2 mentioned above i.e. www.toyota.co.jp/en/vision/sustainability_for_future/overview.html and show the statements of the company on vision, technology, manufacturing and social contribution.

Student Activities (1, 2&3) 1.

In response to teacher activity 1 students may put some questions like:-

a.

What are SUV’s?

b.

What are Hybrids? These questions are based on these words appearing on the first page of the website www.toyota.com. The teacher’s interesting answers to these questions will create an interest for the subject in the students.

2.

The students may ask many questions with regard to the values and commitments made by Toyota motor company in the teacher activity 2. The teacher should try to answer as much as possible but can do so efficiently if he/she has visited the website before the class as mentioned in the teacher preparation before the class.

3.

The website to be accessed in teacher activity 3 is the global website of TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION. This contains the most comprehensive statements regarding its principles of doing business. These are nothing but newer version of the principles mentioned in the Text of the case study. The teacher should emphasize this point for linking the whole activity to the case study after sufficient interest is generated in the students and they begin to construct knowledge based on the experiential learning given. The teacher should be prepared to answer the questions asked by the students based on their individual experiences. For this the teacher preparation as mentioned above should be done honestly and thoroughly.

Teacher Activity -4 Now the teacher is in a position to link the facts gathered and knowledge constructed by the students through experiential learning to the case study. The students should be made to read the case study silently for about 10 minutes. The students should be made clear that the case study text is from the website of the company as on 17-10-2006 and the present form of the same has already been shown to them. However the core principles of the company

as stated in the case study have not changed but have only been presented in the new language with some additions and amendments. After the students finish reading the case study some questions like the following can be put to them:1.

What is the core activity of Toyota motor company?

2.

What are the principles it is following with regard to achieving its business objectives?

3.

In light of the case study and the statements on the websites do you see any changes in the principles that Toyota Motor Corporation has set for itself?

4.

Do you think that the company is following these principles better than its competitors?

5.

Does Toyota vehicles that you see in India make you conclude that these are better than others? Why /Why not?

Student Activity – 4 The responses of the students regarding above or related questions put up by the teacher can be discussed in the class in the form of a normal discussion or a brainstorming session. It should be able to create interest in the students regarding practical applications of principles of management to business. It should be noted that in answering the questions the students are not expected to have a high level of expertise. These questions are only meant to enable them to think positively and with interest towards the unit that is to follow. Assignment No specific assignment needs to be given to students beyond visiting a websites of a few companies and look for any mission statements etc. purely for interest. TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 2 Class: XII Unit: Principles of Management Topic: Box on ‘Evolution of Management Principles’, concept of Principles of management. Learning Resources: Introductory pages of chapter 2 after the opening case study which include case box “Evolution of Management Principles” and ‘concept of Principles of Management ‘ A power -point presentation on the two topics (DESIRABLE THOUGH NOT COMPULSORY) (many power-points are available on the internet on the above topics which can be searched through GOOGLE or the teacher can prepare one himself/herself or with the help of students)

Objectives 1.

The students should be able to get some information about the evolution of management only to create interest in the subject.

2.

Relating the principles of management studied on day 1 through the Toyota case study the students should be able to easily understand the concept of management principles. They can construct the concept on the basis of experiential learning of the case study.

Previous Knowledge The students should be fresh with the experience of watching Toyota websites and should be excited to construct knowledge and looking forward to the experience they are likely to gain on day 2. The box on ‘Evolution of Management Principles’ should help them to add to the excitement they are likely to experience. The teacher should build on the motivation of the students generated on day 1. Teacher Prepration Before the Class The teacher should read the box on ‘Evolution of Management Principles’ thoroughly before the class as this will save time and he/she can quickly discuss some interesting facts from the same. This box is not part of the questions to be asked in the board examination but should be used to create interest in the subject. Also because of this reason time should be saved while generating interest. The teacher should prepare the text on ‘Concept of management principles’ building on the two case studies done with the students. Relationships should be established between them to attain the objectives of constructivist learning. Teacher Activity 1 The teacher should give students 10 minutes to read the box on ‘EVOLUTION OF MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES’. Student Activity 1 The students read the box and ask meaning of certain wors like classical, rational economic view, scientific management, administrative principles, bu rea u cr ati c o rgan i za ti o n, neo cl ass i ca l t heo ry, beh avi o u r a l sci enc e, organizational humanism, operations research, quantitative techniques & contingency approach. Teacher Activity 2 The level of the class should guide the teacher regarding depth of understanding required. The teacher needs only to give broad picture of the evolution of

management principles appropriate to the level of understanding of the pupils. The teacher may use power-point or the internet to supplement if he/she so desires keeping in mind the availability of the same and level of understanding of the class. The teacher should now proceed to the concept of principles of management. The teacher can put forward the following questions to the students:1.

How do we make decisions or behave in life? Are these based on certain guidelines or principles which we form through experience or learnt by practice?

2.

As you have learnt in unit 1 that management is not a pure science so do you think the principles of management are also not pure science? Recall that human behavior is based on emotions which do not follow scientific principles always.

3.

Do principles of management change as a result of your understanding of question 2?

4.

What changes do you think has been brought about by the advent of information and communication technology?

5.

How do you distinguish between techniques and principle?

6.

How do you distinguish between principles and values?

The questions above are just meant to guide the discussion which will follow ones teacher gives them to the class. They are not to demand any expertise from the students. The teacher will guide the discussion in the class by giving appropriate examples and asking the students also to give the same. Student Activity 2 The students will ponder over the questions given by the teacher. The students will participate in the class discussion on the questions and the teacher will help them to arrive at the correct answers based on the text with regard to concept of principles of management on as given in the NCER T book on relevant pages. The students should be encouraged to come up with examples from daily life and then ultimately they should be guided to give examples from the corporate world. Assignment The questions given by the teacher can be answered by the students as a home assignment. This will recapitulate the class discussion and they should be asked to give as many examples to those answers which will reflect the extent of constructed knowledge based on the experience of class discussion.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 3 Class: XII Unit: Principles of Management Topic: Nature of management Principles Learning Resources: ‘Nature of Management Principles’ & Case study of ‘Kiran Mazumdar Shaw’; website of Biocon limited www.biocon.com. Objectives 1.

To enable children to form an understanding of nature of management principles so that they can apply them in their true perspective.

2.

To enable pupils to construct applications based on the true nature of the principles and thus increasing success rate of these applications in actual decision making situations.

Previous Knowledge: Concept and meaning of management principles. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should be through with all the points regarding nature of management principles. The students should be prodded to give examples and construct knowledge of the nature of the principles. The examples would also help in realizing the objectives of their applicability in practical decision making situations with success. The case study of ‘Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon’ should be used as a learning aid to realize the above objectives. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No. 1.

Content Area General Guidelines

Teacher Activity

Student Activity

1. The teacher will put a situation 1. T h e s t u d e n t s g i v e like to following before the di f f er en t r espon se s. students and discuss it in the Som e dif feren t class. alternatives to the ones suggested may emerge A company is facing problems w h ich sh ou ld b e o n a c c ou n t o f e c o n om i c en cou raged b y th e meltdown across world. What teacher since it reflects do you think would be the best constructivism. course for it to take:(a) Ask the employees to take a salary cut. (b) E x i t un - p r of i t a b l e businesses & thus retrench the concerned employees.

(c) Find a strategic partner to i nv e st a n d s h o u ld er th e responsibility to run the company 2. The teacher would emphasize 2. T h e s t u d e n t s c a n that in the problem discussed discuss the point made no one course of action is easy by th e tea ch er with to decide and no one principle their own arguments p r o v i de s a s t r a i g h t j a c ke t and examples. answer. This is because the situation is dynamic and a result of many factors. Still the principles like keeping the interest of the company above all and at the same time giving fair deal to the workers will guide the decision that the company will take. 3. The teacher will conclude that 3. The students can also prin ciples of m an agem en t contribute to arriving provide general guidelines only at the conclusion with and it will depend upon the t h e i r ow n e xa m pl e s situ a tion a n d a n a lysis of and arguments. various factors the course of action the company will take. 2.

Formed by practice and Experimentation

1. The teacher can put a question like below to the students:(a) C a n y o u c o n d u c t a n e x pe r i m e n t t o f i n d o u t w h e t h e r d i s c i pl i n e i s i m po r t a n t i n l i f e o r i n running a company?

1. The students will be think and ponder over t h e q ue s t i o n . T h e teacher will guide the discussion as per the level of the students and help them to arrive at the correct answer.

(b) Can a manager just guess the amount of rest intervals that a worker might require to combat fatigue without c on duc ti ng t h e r e q ui r e d experiment/observation? 2. The corr ect answer should 2 . T h e s t ud e n t s w i l l emerge that no experiment can discuss the proposition be conducted to demonstrate pu t forward by th e that discipline is required in teacher and arrive at running life and a company the right alike; Similarly no rest interval conclusion. T h e y c a can be f i xe d w i t h ou t n a l s o p u t forward more examples

appropriate experiment. But vice-versa is true that it is a m atter o f experien ce th a t discipline is important for life a n d c om p a n y an d t h a t experiment has to be conducted to find out the rest intervals of the employees.

3.

Flexible

w h ich sh ou ld encouraged.

be

T h us t h e p r i n c i p l e s o f m an agem en t are f o r m e d th r ou gh practice an d experimentation. 1. The teacher will put forth a 1. The questions will be question like the following :discussed in the class. The expected responses (a) Will a shopkeeper give all can be th at a authority to his assistant shopkeeper will not sit even when he/she has no idle and also a manager other work to do? can n ot do all w ork (b) Will a manager of a large himself/herself. If the company do all the work answers are different h im self/h e rse lf w ith ou t th e teach er will taking the help of others? accordingly help the students to arrive at the correct answer. 2. The teacher will say that it is 2. The students will give not possible for a shopkeeper their own arguments in to sit idle but the amount of resp on se to th e work delegated to the worker te ach er’s as ser tions will depend upon the specific and construct a few factors of the shop. Similarly m or e e x a m pl e s t o the amount of work done by the arrive at a conclusion m a n a g e r a n d de l e g a t e d t o that the principles of others was flexible and depends m an agem en t are upon various factors. This flexible. flexibility is applicable to all management principles like ce n tr a liz a tion an d decentralization above.

4.

Cause and Effect Relationships

The teacher would put forth the The students will answer q u e s t i on after following situation before the t h e dis cuss ion . It should class: emerge that a labourer 1. A labourer is motivated by requires money to meet money whereas a manager is his/her needs whereas a motivated by a challenging job. m an ager already h as

Why is it that both are not enough money so he/she motivated by the same thing? i s m o t i v a t e d by a challenging job. The teacher will continue the discussion to conclude that the money/challenging job is the cause and motivation is the result. Since the motivators are different hence the cause and effect relationships although existing is less than perfect s i n c e i t i n v o l v e s h um a n behavior/differing needs.

T h e s t ud e n t s s h ou l d participate in th e discussion and construct more such examples to u n de r s t a n d th e conclusion.

5.

Contingent

The teacher would put forth the The students should be following situation before the encouraged to participate class:and arrive on right line of Workers of a public sector bank arguments. The children are demanding a hefty hike in s h o u l d b e a b l e t o salaries. But the management is construct the conclusion not in a position to grant such a that both workers and large increase due to competitive m a n a g e m e n t s h ou l d pressures and downturn in the arrive at the settlement economy. How will you settle the based on fair increase and dispute between the management paying capacity of the bank. and workers? The teacher should be able to The students can be given conclude that the principles of some more situations like management are contingent. The the one above and help application of the principle should t h e m t o a r r i v e a n d b e b a s e d on t h e s i t u a t i o n construct the conclusion m an agem en t p r e v a i l i n g i n t h e e c o n om y , t h a t principles are contingent. in du str y an d th e com pan y specifically.

6.

Case study of ‘Kiran Mazumdar Shaw’ of ‘Biocon’

The teacher will ask the students to read the case study silently for about 10 minutes. She/he will then put forth some questions like those below:1. What were the three reasons which were responsible for Ms K.M. Shaw not getting loans to run the company? 2. What are the factors that have contributed to the success of ‘Biocon’?

The students should read t h e c a s e s t ud y w i t h interest and the teacher should clarify any difficult w or ds/ te r m s et c. Th e students should be made to navigate on the website of th e c o m pa n y www . bioc on. c om a nd thus construct their own k n ow l e d g e a bo u t t h e company in particular a n d a pp l i c a b i l i t y o f

The teacher will guide the students to answer the questions linking them to some of the common p r i n c i pl e s / q u a l i t i e s of determination, self belief, foresight and willingness to take risks etc about Kiran Mazumdar shaw in particular and the company in g e n e r a l . T h e w e bs i t e o f t h e company www.biocon.com can also be accessed to supplement the discussion.

principles of management/ qu alities of a g o o d entrepreneur in general. This will create interest in the lesson and would serve as a precursor to fruitful constructivism about the unit.

Assignment Students should be given constructive assignments like:1.

Access the website of the company biocon i.e www.biocon.com and collect useful information that you think shows contributing to the success of the company. This work can be done for any other company also which interests the students. Make a list of principles or qualities of the promoter/management which have made these companies successful in their fields of business.

2.

Give a brief write-up on the nature of management principles giving examples in support thereof. TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 4

Class: XII Unit: 2-principles of Management Topic: Significance of Principles of Management Learning Resources: Case study of Shri Mahila Greh Udyog Lijjat Papad on relevant page of the book; website of the company www.lijjat.com OBJECTIVES 1.

The students should be able to experience the significance of management principles and construct the practical utility of these principles in business situations.

2.

The case study analysis along with the website will help the students to experience how a company can construct corporate objectives on the platform of social responsibility resulting in a win- win situation for both the company and society at large.

Previous Knowledge The students are well experienced in the concept of management principles, its meaning, concept and nature. Now they should be eager to experience the significance of the principles of management. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should thoroughly prepare in advance the experiential activities to be done in class so that it leads to constructivist learning. The use of website should be practiced and planned for a productive learning experience and good construction of knowledge. This should result in creation of interest which should motivate the students to make more efforts themselves. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No. 1.

2.

Content Area Providing managers with useful insights into reality

Optimum utilization of resources and effective administration

Teacher Activity

Student Activity

1. Th e teach er will pu t th e following situation before the class:-

1. The students will be expected to respond by saying that a manager sh ou ld en d th e staff S up p o s e t h e r e i s f i r e i n t h e meeting and call the fire company’s plant then will the brigade and take other manager still continue to hold a steps. staff meeting or leave the meeting and call the fire brigade etc? 2. The teacher will assert that the example shows that the manager h a s t o g i v e a n e x c e p t i on a l response to this situation which happens rarely. This is called management by exception as per principles of delegation. Thus principles give managers useful in sigh t in to reality an d aid decision- making accordingly.

2. The teacher should discuss this point in the class with the help of the students. The students sh ou ld be able t o experience this point

1. The teacher will use appropriate examples like sharing of ATM’s by many banks so that their clients can withdraw money conveniently.

1. ‘Resources are put to m a xi m u m u se at minimum cost. This is achieved by establishing cau se an de f f e c t r e l ation sh ips an d r edu cin g wastages associated with trial and error approach’

2. The teacher will put a question,” Will it be good for the company if decisions of managers are guided by personal biases or prejudices? In order to clarify the question furth er th e teach er can give examples like whether it would be good if annual budgets of various d e pa r t m e n t s a r e d e c i d e d b y friendship of the departmental head with CEO rather than the contribution and requirements of that department?

2. Th e stu den ts can discuss the question of wh at con stit u te s ‘Effective Administration’ with the help of examples and questions asked by th e teacher. It should help the class in arriving at th e con clu sion , ’Effective administration n ece ssita te d im pperson aliz ati on of managerial conduct so that managerial power is used with due discretion. Principles of management lim it t he b oun d ary of managerial discretion so th at th e m an agerial decision s ar e fr ee of p e r s o n a l bi a s an d pr e j u di c e i n t h e be s t interest of the company.’

3.

Scientific decisions

Continuing the above the teacher sh ou ld ask th e class,”Can m an ag ers of a com pany take decisions based on rule of thumb rather than scientific analysis?” To f u r t h e r h e l p s om e s u i t a b l e examples can be given like Work S t ud y e t c . (O n l y a brief introduction as it will be done later in detail)

4.

Meeting changing environment requirements

The teacher should ask a question F r om t h e f or e g oi n g like, ‘Does the market for product/ discussion it should be service always same or changing? easy for the students to arrive at the conclusion In this scenario how can the th at,’ Bu sin ess principles of management help environment is dynamic managers?’ and that the principles of Appropriate examples can also be management are flexible given like decrease or decrease in and help m anagers in the demand for particular brand adapting to the changing of product/ service. situations’.

5.

Fulfilling social responsibility

The teacher should initiate a short discussion in class on ‘Corporate

The students should not take much time to arrive at the conclusion that,’ Management principles h e l p i n t h ou g h t f u l decision making which are based on logical analysis and free from p e r s o n a l bi a s an d prejudice’

The students should take part enthusiastically in

6.

(including case study of Shri Mahila Greh Udyog Lijjat papad)

social responsibility and how principles of management have shaped actions of corporates.’ The case study should be used as an e x a m p l e o f t h e c o r po r a t i o n combining social responsibility an d busine ss princ iple s. T he w e bs i t e of th e company,’www.lijjat.com’ should a lso be a cce ssed for be tte r understanding and experience which will help the students in c on s t r u c t i n g k n ow l e d g e . T h e website has been changed and it more animated but has the same content as given in the box on page 41 of the book.

this discussion and the use of case study and inter net should enrich the experiential learning through constructivism.

Management training, education and research

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d a s k t h e students, “Which course would they do if they want to become a manager in an MNC?” What do y ou t h in k i s ta ug h t in th es e c o ur s e s ? Ca n P r i n c i p l e s o f management help in managerial training?

T h e s t ud e n t s c a n b e helped in answering these q ue s t i o n s t h r ou g h discussion in the class with active help from the teacher. This should help the students should help to arrive at the conclusion t h a t , ’ Pr i n c i p l e s of m an agem en t h elp in m an agerial t r a i n i n g , education and research and are usually taught in the beginning of such courses.’

Assignment The students can be given an assignment 1.

Some questions on the case study of lijjat papad only to reinforce the understanding of social responsibility but not from the examination point of view.

2.

Appropriate questions on the significance of principles of management which will help in construction of knowledge.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 5 Class: XII Unit: Principles of Management Topic: Principles of Scientific Management Learning Resources: Cartoon accompanying the principle of ‘Cooperation , Not individualism’. Objectives 1.

To help the students to experience the meaning, context and impact of the principles of scientific management.

2.

Understanding the ramifications of these principles on the present practices in production and contemporary management thought.

Previous Knowledge The pupils are already aware of background of Taylor, his contribution in some detail and also meaning, nature, concept and significance of Principles of management. Teacher Preparation Before The Class The teacher must prepare for the class by being thorough in the questions, examples and experiences he/she will give the students about the Principles of Scientific Management including the cartoon in the book. Supplementary material from other sources like internet can also be used for the preparation. Sl No. 1.

Content Area Science and not the rule of the thumb

Teacher Activity

Student Activity

The teacher would put forward the The students should take follow in g qu estion s f o r part in th e g u i d e d discussion:discussion by the teacher. The teacher should give 1. What do you mean by rule of hints and examples to the the thumb? students to answer the 2. What is Scientific method and questions. The students how is it different from the rule of s h o u l d b e a b l e t o the thumb? conclude that:3. G i v e s o m e e x a m p l e s o f 1. R ul e of th e t hum b application of Scientific method to involves trial and error. management practice. 2. Scien tific m eth od involved investigation of tradition al m eth ods t h r o u g h w o r k s t ud y , u n ify in g th e be s t

practices and developing a s t a n da r d m e t h o d , which would be followed th rou g h ou t th e organization. 3. Examples of scientific m eth od can be d e v e l op m e n t o f an efficient m achine; and w ork flow to en su r e optim um utilization of resources etc. 2.

Harmony not discord

The following questions should be T h e q ua l i t y o f s h or t p u t b e f o r e t h e c l a s s f o r discussion on the three questions will determine discussion:t h e e x pe r i e n c e t h e 1. Is conflict between managers s t u de n t s w i l l h a v e t o a n d w or k e r s c om m o n in construct knowledge of companies? t h i s p r i n c i pl e . T h e 2. What is the effect of such teacher should encourage students to give examples conflict? on the conflict between 3. What can both managers and managers and workers w o r k e r s do t o m i n i m i z e t h i s and its effect thereof. conflict?

3.

Cooperation not individualism

The teacher should put forth the The teacher should guide follow in g qu estion s f o r th e discu ssion a n d discussion:should help the students 1. Is it desirable that competition to give examples in regard should be replaced by cooperation to the an sw ers to the bein g b e t w e e n m a n a g e m e n t a n d q u e s t i on s discussed. The students workers? sh ou ld be able t o 2. If yes, how can it be achieved? conclude that:1. It is not desirable that th er e sh ou ld be com petition b e t w e e n m an agem en t an d workers. 2. Open communication, suggestion systems and reward sharing besides other measures can help to achieve the desired goals in this regard.

Help of the cartoon on pa g e 46 of th e book should be taken to guide the discussion. The fact that this principle is an extension to the principle of ‘Harmony not discord’ should be emphasized. 4.

Development of each and every person to his greatest efficiency and prosperity.

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d a s k t h e The discussion should h elp th e stu den ts to following questions:e x pe r i e n c e t h e t r u e 1. Is it desirable that each person essence of the principle employed in the company should and also related facts as be given a chance to develop to g i v e n i n t h e bo o k his/her greatest efficiency? including Taylor’s views 2. If so how w ould it ens ur e thereof. prosperity for both company and the employee? 3. How does this effect employee selection, work allocation and performance?

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 6 Class: XII Unit: Principles of Management Topic: Techniques of Sci entific M angement- Fu nctio na l Fo remanshi p; Standardisation and Simplification of Work Learning Resources: Topics of ‘Functional Foremanship and ’Simplification of Work’ and theaccopanying diagram on functional foremanship. Objectives 1.

The students should be able to understand the concept of Functional foremanship and experience its effect on the worker.

2.

The students should be able to understand the concepts of Standardization and Simplification of work and experience its effects in our everyday life.

Previous Knowledge The students are already aware of Taylor’s concept of scientific management, his basic thinking and the principles of scientific management. Now they should be ready to understand and experience the two techniques that will be discussed in the class.

Teacher Preparation Before the Class 1.

For effective curriculum transaction of technique of functional foremanship the teacher should prepare thoroughly the functions of each foreman and examples thereof so that the students can experience the effect of one worker being accountable to 8 different bosses.

2.

For effective curriculum transaction of the technique of Standardization and Simplification of work the teacher should have examples illustrating differences between the two techniques so that the pupils can experience this in their real life situations and construct applications thereof.

Teacher and Student Activities for Curriculum Transaction of Functional Foremanship Sl No.

Content Area

Teacher Activity

1.

Defining and understanding the position of Foreman

1. W h at is th e position of foreman in the shop floor?

Qualities of a good foreman

What are the qualities of a good foreman that are required to perform the functions listed by you?

2.

2. What are his/her functions?

Student Activity The students should be able to arrive at th e correct answers after brief discussion aided by the teacher. The students should be able to arrive at th e an swer that foreman is responsible for the performance of workers under him/her at the shop floor. His/her functions thus may include framing instructions, com m u n icatin g th em effectively, deciding the route of production, keeping the costs and time taken under c on t r ol , m ain tain in g discipline, getting defective machines repaired, ensuring the availability of raw material and tools in the right quantity and at the right time etc. The students will give various answers but they should be helped to arrive at a definite list of qualities which may include- intellectual qualities l i k e a n a l y t i c a l a bi l i t y & scientific temper; Leadership qualities like decision making and motivating the workers; Physical strength ; Mental toughness etc.

3.

Taylor’s separation of planning and execution

1. Is it common to find all the The students should answer qualities listed above in one in the negative. person? The students should answer 2. Will it be good to separate in the positive. planning from execution as advocated by Taylor

4.

People in planning department

The students will be asked to list the 4 planning clerks and their functions. These should be discussed with examples.

5.

People in production department

The students will be asked to The students can take the list 4 people under production h e l p of t h e t e xt book a n d in-charge and their functions d i s c u s s t h e n a m e s a n d functions. These functions should be illustrated with the help of examples.

6.

Implications

Th e teach er w ill in itiate discussion on the implications o f t h e c o n c e p t i n t od a y ’ s business environment. The teacher should play the role of a facilitator to help students construct knowledge based on the learning experience they have had while understanding the concept.

The students can take the h e l p of t h e t e xt book a n d discu ss th e n am es an d functions. These functions should be illustrated with the help of examples.

This part of the lesson should be the most absorbing since i t s h oul d be l i k e a b r a i n stor m in g se ssion with s t ude n t s c om i ng up wi t h points such as how can a person be responsible towards 8 bo s s e s e t c . ? S t u d e n t s should be encouraged to come out with as many points as th e y can t o r e i n f or c e constructivism.

Teacher and Student Activities for Curriculum Transaction of Standadisation and Simplification of Work Sl No.

Content Area

1.

Understanding ‘Standardization’

Teacher Activity Do you use products with ISI mark, Gold with Hallmark, Food Articles with FPO mark and Agriculture Products with Agmark? Sim ilarly h ave you h eard of products and services marked ISO- 9001 etc? What do all these things have in common? The students should be engaged in discussion on the above lines.

2.

Objectives of standardization

3.

Understanding Simplification

The teacher will discuss the 4 points mentioned at the beginning of page 50 in this context. The students should be facilitated to ill ustrat e each poin t w ith an example each.

The teacher will ask the following questions:Are all sizes of articles available in the market e.g. shoes or clothes like for example trousers with waist 85 cm, 85.1 cm, 85.11 cm and so on?

Student Activity S t ud e n t s s h o u l d b e facilitated to engage in a fruitful discussion and h elped in a n s w e r i n g questions. They should be able to conclude that the marks on products and services imply that they a dh e r e to certain stan dards wh ich are certified by the accredited agenc y. Thus standar d i z a t i on refers to assurance that quality of products or service is up to th e m ark. T h e s e sta n d ar d s can be establish ed for every b usi n e s s a c t i vi t y , r a w material, time, product, machinery, methods or working conditions. The students should be engaged in constructivist discussion and prodded to give as many examples as possible to illustrate the 4 sta te d ob je ctive s o f s t a n da r di z a t i o n . T h e y m ay list som e oth er o bj e c t i v e s a l s o . T h e teacher should actively encourage the same. T h e an sw er to t h i s question is an obvious ‘NO’. This should help the students to realize that only standard sizes and varieties of a particular article/service is made and stored. Thus they sh ou ld be able to

4.

Objectives of Simplification

5.

Distinguishing between Standardization and Simplification

6.

Examples of Standardization and Simplification

construct the meaning of simplification as stated on The teacher would put arguments page 50 of the book. on the following lines:This question would help I f t h e r e w oul d h a v e be e n n o the students to visualize simplification what would have a s it uat ion w he r eb y a been the result for the companies? l a r g e v a r i e t y of g oo d s would have to be produced an d dem an d for each w ou l d b e l e s s . A n in ter estin g sh ort discussion can take place on the possible scenarios when som e interesting situ a tion s ca n a l s o e m e r g e . T h i s w ou l d sustain the interest of the stu de n ts an d h e lp i n constructing experience and knowledge thereof. H ow e v e r t h e u l t i m a t e learning should lead to the r e a l i z a t i on th at s i m p l i f i c a t i on a i m s a t eliminating superfluous var ie tie s, size s a n d dimensions. This results in saving s of costs and fuller utilization of existing Now that you are clear about the resources. m e a n i n g a n d o bj e c t i v e s o f A short discussion on the S t an d a r d iz a ti on a n d topic should bring out the Simplification can you derive the correct answer from the difference between the two? students. T h e tea ch er can n a m e th e companies like Maruti Suzuki and The students can Nokia and ask the students to give give examples after help examples from the products of from the teacher. They can these companies also give other example from their imagination and construct a few more.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 7 Class: XII Unit: Principles Of Management Topic: Work study including method study, time study, motion study and fatigue study. Learning Resources: Relevant Pages of the book containing the above topic. ; A power point presentation on the topic (optional) Objectives 1.

To understand the importance of fixing standards on the basis of work study including use of its sub parts i.e. Method study, Motion Study, Time study and Fatigue study at the time of Taylor.

2.

To understand the contemporary relevance of these techniques and developments thereof.

Previous Knowledge The students are aware of Taylor’s basic concept of Scientific Management and his philosophy in the form of principles. They are also aware of his two techniques Functional foremanship and Standardization and Simplification of work. This lesson logically follows from these areas. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should be thoroughly prepared with the right questions to be asked to the class and also with the possible answers to the questions that the student might ask. Some learning aids in the form of a power point presentation will be of great help. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No.

Content Area

1.

Method Study

Teacher Activity The teacher will put the following questions:1. Can there be more than one method of doing the same work? 2. If a work can be done in more than one way can we have one best way of doing it?

Student Activity 1. The students should reply in the affirmative. A very few students may dif fer. But the teacher should correct them with the help of examples. 2. T h e e xpe c t e d r e p l y sh ou ld be in th e affirmative. The teacher

can provide examples to the students if they are unable to answer. 3. How can we find one best way of 3. The students might be doing a work in production work foxed by this question. in a factory? Bu t th e teach er can p r o v i de c l u e s f o r t h e students to visualize a production situation like a ca r ass embly li ne et c. Some learning aids like pictures etc should be used here. The students should be able to suggest some ways to find out one best way r e du c i n g t h e l a g t i m e betw een raw m aterial purchase and its use etc. 4. The teacher can now proceed 4. The students should to discu ss th e T a y l or ’ s respond to this question – contribution in method study. an sw er session a n d c on s t ruc t t h e T ay l or’s concept of Method Study. 2.

3.

Motion Study

Time Study

The teacher can ask questions T h e s t ud e n t s c a n b e engaged to take part in a like:s h or t di s c u s s i o n t o 1. Can you identify motions while answer these very easy doing a typical job? questions. If the students 2. Do you think some of them can are not able to answer any be eliminated to do a job more of these the teacher can efficiently? p r o v i de t h e r e l e v a n t inputs. 3. Now the teacher can discuss the contribution of Taylor though appropriate questions and other methods.

The students should be e n g ag ed in a fru i tfu l discussion and be helped to construct the relevant concepts and examples. Help of the book etc can be taken.

The teacher can for m relevant questions to make the students understand that standard time has to be found out to carry out a well defined job.

T h e s t ud e n t s l i k e t h e p r e v i ou s pa r t o f t h i s lesson be engaged in a fruitful discussion and be a bl e t o c on s t r u c t t h e relevant concept.

4.

Fatigue Study

The teacher should form relevant questions to make the students understand that the aim of fatigue study is to find out the amount and frequency of rest intervals for a worker in completing a given task.

The students should be e n g ag ed in a fru itfu l discussion to for m the concept of fatigue study. Any relevant learning aid should be used.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 8 Class: XII Unit: Principles Of Management Topic: Fayol’s Principles of management- introduction, Principles of Division of work, authority and responsibility, discipline, unity of command and unity of direction Learning Resources: Box on life of Henri Fayol; Box on differences between unity of command and unity of direction; Power point presentation and internet resources on the subject. Objectives 1.

Understanding the life, background and contribution of Henri Fayol.

2.

Experience of the principles mentioned above and construction of knowledge and application thereof.

Previous Knowledge The students are well aware of the evolution of management principles, and Taylor’s contribution therein. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should be well prepared with the topics to be covered as well as the power points and other internet resources for the class. The questions and discussions in the class should be prepared well in advance.

Teacher and Student Activity Sl No.

Content Area

Teacher Activity

Student Activity

1.

Division of Work

The teacher should put the 1. The students should be following questions before the given ample time to think class for discussion:and then come forward with their answers to these two 1. Is it possible for any one q ue s t i on s . T h e a n s w e r s teacher in your school to teach should obviously be NO. all th e 5 su bjects you are studying? 2. But the student should be as ke d to for m a me nt al 2. Even it so happens will the picture of a situation when curricu lu m tran saction be one teacher teaches all the efficient and effective? s ub j e c t s s o t h a t t h e 3. Now the concept of ‘Division principle of division of work of Work’ should be introduced should be well appreciated with the help of examples. by them. The implications of one person doing many jobs 4. Implications of ‘Division of ‘ J a c k of a l l t r a d e s a n d Wor k ’ on bus in e s s a n d l i f e master of none’ should be should be discussed. discussed threadbare.

2.

Authority and Responsibility

T h e t e a c h e r c a n p u t t h e The short discussion should following question before the e n a b l e t h e s t u de n t s t o class:understand all the aspects Is discipline important in life and of this principle and the business and if so what are the implication thereof. This implications thereof and how should then result in its translation in their daily can it be done? lives which will help them to be g ood a n d s u c c e s s f ul individuals.

3.

Discipline

The teacher can start a short This short discussion will d i s c u s s i o n b y p o s i n g t h e lead to appreciation by the following question:students of the need and Do you think you can work if you relevance of this principle. r e c e i v e o r de r s a n d a r e Th e st ude nt s shoul d be accountable to 2 bosses? What m a de a w a r e t h r ou g h will be the implications thereof? d i s c u s s i o n a b ou t t h e implications of not following this principle and resulting confusion. A lot of examples n ee d to b e g ive n f o r r e i n f o r c e m e n t . F a y ol ’ s contribution should also be u se d as g ive n i n th e textbook.

4.

Unity of Command

1. Related to the Principle of unity of command the teacher should put the following question:Do you think that unity of effort is also required for realization of similar group objectives?

5.

6.

Unity of Direction

Distinction between’ Unity of Command’ and ‘Unity of Direction’

1. This short discussion will result in the students forming a mental picture of group unity of effort. It should then be easy for the teacher to help the students to introduce the c o n c e p t o f un i t y o f direction.

1. Now the teacher should state the principle, give examples and discuss its implications for business.

2. The students should be asked to construct their ow n e xam ples. T h e se should be discussed in the class and appropriate supplementary material in the form of power point presentations can be used

The teacher should now tell the students that now that they have studied the concept in detail it would be appropriate to discuss their differences. The box given in the book in this regard should be used. The students should be asked to discuss the differences with appropriate examples.

The students should be explained the differences very thoroughly and with g o od , easy an d understandable examples to make the topic clear. This will help the pupils to construct good knowledge and experience related to the topic.

Note: Power points and internet resources should be used extensively to make the concepts clear as this will lay a good foundation for the students to construct on the knowledge gained for future applications in life.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 9 Class: XII Topic: Subordination of individual interest to general interest, remuneration of personnel, centralization and decentralization, scalar chain and order. Learning Resources: Relevant Pages of the book, Power points and internet resources on the topic. Objectives 1.

To enable the students to understand the concepts involved in the principles mentioned above.

2.

To apply these principles in practice.

Previous Knowledge The students are well aware of the nature of contribution of Fayol and also the previously discussed principles. These can be linked to the principles that have to transact today for holistic understanding. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should have a clear understanding of the principles and list of questions to be put before the class. The teacher should also plan some group activities that can be done to supplement the other learning resources. Web resources as well as power points should be planned well in advance. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No.

Content Area

1.

Subordination of individual interest to general interest

Teacher Activity The teacher can put the following questions:1. Should a manager give special facilities /treatment /concession to a particular employee/group merely because they can exert p r e s s ur e on t h e c om p a n y / manager? 2. What will be the effect of such treatment? 3. W hat should be the proper behavior of the manager in such situations and what would be the effect thereof?

2.

Remuneration of Personnel

The teacher questions:-

can put f following

1. What should be the guiding prin ciple w h ile decid in g th e remuneration of people? 2. Explain the words ‘Just and fair’ in this context. 3.

Centralization and decentralization

The teacher asks the class to imagine two situations:-

Student Activity These questions can form a part o f p r o d u c t i v e a n d s h or t d iscu ssion th a t t h e teacher can have with the students and in the class in the for m of an open discu ssion /brain s tor mi n g se s si on. Th e teacher along with the active participation of the pupils should make the discu ssion lively an d fruitful with the help of e xa m p l e s s o t h a t t h e p u pi l s a r e a b l e t o construct knowledge in the right perspective. This short discussion will help the pupils under s t a n d t h e i m p or t a n c e correct fixation of remuneration of principle. The treacher should give as m an y exam ples as possible with the help of the students. These two situations are used to define and make students understand the

1. W hen the decision making authority is concentrated in the hands of one/few persons.

concepts of centralization and decentralization. The students should be given am ple ch an ce to a s k 2. When it is given to all concerned questions which should be persons across the entire company answered by the teacher /organization. w ith equ al aplom b to make the terms very clear, 3. How should the organization balance the two?

4.

Scalar Chain

I n r e s po n s e t o t h i s q ue s t i o n t h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d g i v e v a r i o u s 1. Is there a superior subordinate examples with the help of relationship in your school or any students and define the big organization? concept of scalar chain. The teacher can ask the following question:-

The concept of gang plank.

The teacher can have a short discussion on the subject. This will clarify the concept and help the s t u de n t s t o c o n s t r uc t knowledge. The need for gan g plan k an d i t s m o de r n application s h ou l d b e d i s c u s s e d threadbare.

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d p u t t h e following proposition before the class:-

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d initiate the discussion. This will help the students to grasp the need and practice of this principle.

2.

5.

Order

T h i s s h o ul d i n v o l v e a short discussion which should help the students t o bu i l d k n ow l e d g e of actual practice of these concepts briefly.

A place for ever thing (everyone) and everything (everyone) in its place.

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 10 Unit: PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT Topic: Equity, stability of tenure of personnel, initiative and Espirit de corps Learning Resources: Box on Fayol- Then and now; any appropriate power point presentation. Objectives 1.

To understand the principles of equity, stability of tenure of personnel, initiative and Espirit De Corps.

2.

To understand the modern context of practice of Fayol’ s Principles and comparison between Present and Past of the same.

Previous Knowledge The students are well aware of the contribution of Fayol, his thinking and his take on various other principles. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should prepare the list of questions to be put before the class, the directions of discussions that will take place and all the learning aids to be used. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No. 1.

Content Area Equity

Teacher Activity T h e s h or t di s c u s s i on o n t h e principle should include areas:-

Student Activity

The students should be involved in all the aspects of this discussion so that 1. Mean in g- k in dlin ess an d they are able to construct Justice in all dealings to ensure knowledge and apply this fairness to all. very important principle in 2. Good sense and experience their daily professional needed on part of managers, and personal lives. They 3 . J u d i c i o us a p pl i c a t i o n o f should be encouraged to ask questions threadbare. Penalties. 4. Discrimination free environment 5. Examples

2.

Stability of Tenure of Personnel

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d p u t t h e following questions before the class:-

These questions should be discussed in class with maximum participation. T h ey w ill h elp t h e 1. Imagine that you are a manager. students to understand Will you be able to show results if the principle of ‘Stability you fear transfer to a new location of Tenure of Personnel’ in soon? the right perspective and 2. Will you not think of joining a th us pr ovide th e right new company in this case? experience for construction of concept. 3. What effect will this have on the company per se? 4. What should the company do as a matter of policy to avoid the above situation?

3.

Initiative

T h e t e a c h e r s h ou l d p u t t h e follow in g qu estion s for discussion:1 . A w o r k e r s ug g e s t s h i s s upe r v i sor a n e w w ay of pe r for ming his job which he has discovered after many years of experience? Should the supervisor e n c o u r a g e t h e w or k e r t o implement it?

These questions should be discussed in the class. Appropriate examples can be given by both teachers and students. This should help the students to arrive at th e correct u n d e r s t a n di n g o f t h e principle of initiative.

2. If yes what should be the policy of the company in encouraging initiative among the workers? 4.

Espirit De Corps

The teacher should start a short This discussion should discussion on the following lines:- h e l p t h e s t u d e n t s t o 1. In unit 1 you have learnt the construct knowledge on ‘Management is a group activity’ the principle of Espirt de a n d a l s o t h a t T E A M m e a n s corps. It is also a very ‘ T O G E T HE R E V E R Y O N E important life-skill to work ACHIEVES MORE’. Do you think in a team. This learning that Management should promote activity should contribute in the development of this team sprit? Why? realization to some extent. 2. What steps should management take do so?

TEACHING PLAN FOR DAY 11 Unit: Principles of Management Topic: Comparison of Fayol and Taylor Learning Resources: Management Gurus’

Table of comparison and case on ‘Rise of Indian

Objectives 1.

To understand comparison between Taylor and Fayol’s contribution.

2.

To know the contribution of Indians to management thought.

Previous Knowledge The students are already familiar with the contribution of Taylor and Fayol to Management Thought. Teacher Preparation Before the Class The teacher should prepare the list of questions which he/she will put before the class while the topic is being discussed. The case study of ‘Rise of Indian Management Gurus’ should also be prepared in some measure to generate interest among the students. Teacher and Student Activities Sl No.

Content Area

Teacher Activity

Student Activity

1.

Perspective

Which level of management did The students can give the principles given by Fayol and required reply after a brief Taylor deal with respectively? discussion/intervention by the teacher.

2.

Unity of Command

Did both of them agree on Unity of Command?

3.

Applicability

Whose principles are applicable The students can give the universally and who’s in specified required reply after a brief situations? discussion/intervention by the teacher.

4.

Basis of formation

How did each of them form these The students can give the principles/techniques? Did it required reply after a brief discussion/intervention differ? by the teacher.

The students can give the required reply after a brief discussion/intervention by the teacher.

5.

Focus

Did both differ in focus? If so how?

The students can give the required reply after a brief discussion/intervention by the teacher.

6.

Personality

Did their personalities differ? If so how?

The students can give the required reply after a brief discussion/intervention by the teacher.

7.

Expression

What expression did they use to describe their contribution?

The students can give the required reply after a brief discussion/intervention by the teacher.

CHAPTER 3C

Business Environment Subprime Global Economic Meltdown Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Economies Business environment is the resultant of a number of interacting and constantly changing social and economic forces and thus remain in a state of flux. Business environment in the present era of economic libralisation, privatisation and globalisation is becoming increasingly complex, unstable and unpredictable. Variations in the overall and sectoral rates of growth and frequent shifts in macroeconomic policies necessitated and triggered by social, economic or even political issues and problems, urgent attention keep business environment in a state of continuous change. The changing environment creates challenges, opens up new opportunities and affects the strengths and weaknesses of various business segments. Firms with good adaptability or flexibility are in a better position to capitalise on a given change in business environment and enhance their competitive position in the market. Business environment is a multi layered structure. The various dimensions of environment are social, political, economic, legal, cultural and technological. The study of these aspects will be done with the help of an example. Source of information: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Morgan Stanley Google search engine IMF forecast Example: Global Economic Meltdown Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Economies The working of the system as planned: (for more details and presentations log on to “Business Interactive Features-Diagrams- Illustrations-Portfoloi.com”) There being too much liquidity in the US economy, easy loans were being given. During boom mortgages pump up so much money into the economy.

PolicyInterest Rates:Downor Steady, andNegativeinReal Terms

6 UnitedStates Japan 5 EuroArea 4

3

2

1

0 2006

2007

08-Jan

08-Feb

08-Mar

MRV*

Think of mortgage payments as small trickles of water that flow down to a much larger pipe When a bank creates a security backed by mortgage payments, it diverts this trickle into a larger bucket This bucket is AAA rated, and then sold to investors The bucket cannot hold so much water (money), so the bank puts another bucket under that, then another and so on. These lower buckets have a lower credit rating, because they have greater risk, in terms of their bucket not filling up (or money not reaching lower levels) During a boom period this system was excellent!!! Yielding very good returns If some borrowers start to default, then not all the buckets of the mortgage backed securities will become full The CDO (Collateralized Debt Obligations) was constructed so that even if the lower buckets of the mortgage backed securities run dry, there will be enough liquidity to fill the top rated securities

But when all lower branches of mortgage backed securities run dry, there is no money left for the CDO What was the mistake the bank made??? They thought that the risk of the CDO was minimized by its diversity, for example if borrowers in Florida did not pay them borrowers in California would certainly pay, but over the last year many kinds of mortgages defaulted at the same time leaving no money for even the super senior AAA tranche which was meant to be completely safe. Wall Street giants like the Citigroup, Merrill L ynch have been severely shaken by their losses because of innovative financing like the CDOs World wide there is more then $ 1 trillion invested in CDOs, Residential Mortgage Backed Securities (RMBS) up to 56% of the assets in CDOs, so the slump in housing has had a huge ripple effect on these investments. CDO’s were purchased by banks who would buy it only if it is insured against defaults. Therefore CDO’s were insured through CDS that is Credit Default Swaps. And that is how it became important for the US government to save AIG because if AIG were to have crashed then it would have brought the insurance sector down which in turn would have affected the entire economy because it is insurance which safeguards aviation industry and all large projects besides life insurance besides automobiles etc… The sub prime mortgage crisis is an ongoing financial crisis triggered by a dramatic rise in mortgage < h ttp :/ /e n .w ik i p ed i a.org /w ik i/M o rtg a g e > delin qu en cies and foreclosures in the United States , with major adverse consequences for banks and financial markets around the globe. The crisis, which has its roots in the closing years of the 20th century, became apparent in 2007 and has exposed pervasive weaknesses in financial industry regulation and the global financial system. Banks were taking major risks earlier, helped by easy monetary policies and world awash in liquidity, led to easy availability of finance. The signs were already evident in 2007-08: real estate bubbles, asset price surges, emerging markets. Stock markets were beginning to come down. Capital flows to Emerging Markets were falling. Then came September…Lehman Brothers collapses. Delinquencies are defined as those loans where the borrower is 30 to 90 days behind in payments. At the end of the delinquency period - and this may vary from state to state depending on the type of foreclosure allowed under state law.

Many U.S. mortgages issued in recent years were made to sub prime borrowers, defined as those with lesser ability to repay the loan based on various criteria. When U .S. h ou se pri ces be g a n to dec lin e in 2 006 -0 7, m ortg ag e delinquencies soared, and securities backed with sub prime mortgages (CDOs, RMBS), widely held by financial firms, and lost most of their value. The result has been a large decline in the capital of many banks and USA government sponsored enterprises , tightening credit around the world What is sub prime lending? Sub prime lending is the practice of lending , mainly in the form of mortgages for the purchase of residences, to borrowers who do not meet the usual criteria for borrowing at the lowest prevailing market interest rate . These criteria pertain to the borrower’s credit score , credit history and other factors. If a borrower is delinquent in making timely mortgage payments to the loan servicer (a bank or other financial firm), the lender can take possession of the residence acquired using the proceeds from the mortgage, in a process called foreclosure . Causes of Delinquencies Social- the inability of homeowners to make their mortgage payments, high personal and corporate debt levels, Economic: speculation and overbuilding during the boom period, risky mortgage products, the influx of moneys from the private sector and banks entering into the mortgage bond market, the predatory lending practices of mortgage brokers Legal- monetary policy, international trade imbalances, and government regulation (or the lack thereof), corporate governance and transparency in financial services and housing deteriorated Where are we? Financial markets remain under heavy stress, confidence has collapsed, and credit is tight.

Pronounced and deep global recession but likely recovery later this year. Emerging economies - caught in the shockwave US Housing Market Collapse- Global crisis triggered by the US housing market collapse Easy access to credit Falling interest rates and rising availability mortgages, combined with rising housing prices encouraged consumers to buy homes. Relaxed lending standards To cater to the growing number of mortgage seekers, lenders relaxed standards and issued a large number of sub-prime loans. Inadequate regulations Regulations did not keep pace with innovations in US financial products, leading to much higher complexity, poor transparency and greater risk. Effect of the Sub Prime Crisis across the World The Global Economy is entering a Major Slowdown The US, the world’s largest economy, has grown by 1.6 % in 2008 but will grow only by 0.1 % in 2009. Euro area growth is 1.3% in 2008 and is expected to be no more than 0.2% in 2009. Growth in Japan is 0.7 % in 2008 and is expected to be 0.5% in 2009. Growth in emerging market and developing economies (India, China etc.) Is expected to moderate from 6.9% in 2008 to 6.0 % in 2009. World stock markets have taken a beating, leading to a loss in confidence amongst investors who are stepping back in spite of several cuts in lending rates by the banks. E.g. DJIA (Dow Jones Industrial Average) fell below 10,000 mark (first time in four years) plunging more than 800 points in a single day. The fall was mirrored in stock markets, such as NASDAQ, NYSE, Nikkei 225, London’s FTSE (a London Index Company), Germany’s DAX, etc Loses to investors- Both institutional investors and individual investors have suffered huge losses both in mortgage backed securities (MBS) and related products, and in equities. Increasing unemployment- There have been job cuts in many companies across various sectors around the globe. This trend has not been limited to the financial sector alone.

Decline in global business- There is considerable decline in business all over world marked by reduced output and consumer spending, particularly in Britain, France, Germany and Japan. Automobile Industry- The industries being impacted include automotive, airline, building materials etc. Automotive companies such as GM, Ford and Toyota reported 45%, 30% and 23% decline in sales respectively, in October 2008 Freeze in inter bank credit- Failure of banks fueled anxiety in international banking markets leading to a freeze in inter-bank lending. Government bailout- Several bailout packages have been announced by governments around the world to fight the growing financial crisis Challenges for Indian Economy Growth forecasts for China and India revised downwards Industrial activity, particularly in the manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, is decelerating. Services sector, the prime growth engine for the last five years, is slowing, mainly in the construction, transport and communication, trade, hotels & restaurants sub-sectors. Exports have declined in absolute terms in October 2008 for the first time in seven years. Demand for bank credit is slackening despite comfortable liquidity in the system. Higher input costs & dampened demand have dented corporate margins while the uncertainty surrounding the crisis has affected business confidence. Unemployment - There have been Job cuts in many companies across various sectors (export-oriented sectors such as gems and jewellery, autos & textiles being most impacted). Indian Economy - Growth Measures The economic growth is around 6-7% in 2008 from 9% (the average of the past three years) due to the global economic recession but will maintain around 6% in 2009 on the back of strong domestic demand. Repo Rate has been lowered from 6.5% to 5.5% while the Reverse Repo rate from 5% to 4% to encourage banks to finance productive activities more competitively. Cash reserve ratio has been slashed by 0.5% to 5% to make more lendable money available to banks. The reduction will release additional liquidity to the extent of Rs. 20,000 crores into the financial system.

The government has announced an Rs.30700 crore fiscal stimulus package mainly comprising additional spending and excise duty cuts aimed at boosting consumption to steer the economy from a painful slowdown. RBI has opened up a Rs. 7000 crore refinance window to enable greater flow of credit to micro and small enterprises. RBI has extended the concessional treatment to commercial real estate sector which have been restructured to give builders more time to repay the loans. Government- owned banks to announce separate packages for home loans up to Rs. 5 lakh and Rs. 20 lakh. Government has announced Export incentives of over Rs. 2000 crore and special incentives for textiles, handlooms, handicraft, gems & jewellery, leather and marine food. RBI has directed the banks for concessional interest rate on post- shipment rupee credit up to 180 days. Indian Corporates have been allowed to buy back prematurely up to $ 50 million of their Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds (FCCBs).

CHAPTER 3D

Globalisation and Business Environment Globalisation Integrating the economy with the rest of the world Dismantling of tariffs-reduction of import duties Removal of non-tariff restrictions on trade such as exchange control and import licensing quotas. Allowing foreign Direct Investment –FDI and foreign Portfolio Investment. Allowing companies to raise capital abroad and encouraging domestic companies to grow beyond national boundaries. National economies are integrated through trade, finance, production and network of global treaties and institutions. Factors that have driven globalisation Increased international trade. Growth of multinational corporations Internationalisation of finance Application of new technologies in operations, especially computer and other formation technology. Standard Globalisation Menus Set procedures(menus) are listed by the IMF, World Bank and WTO which outlay how globalisation should be attained in any country. IMF and World Bank Reduction of budgetary subsidies Removal of subsidies for agricultural inputs Pursuance of liberal economics policies Promotion of foreign investment Privatisation of the banking sector.

WTO Pursuance of free trade Removal of restrictions on MNCs Globalisation Indicators Extent of Globalisation 1.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Investment in real assets like factories, sales offices by foreign firms. Intel inflow has increased over 15 years

2.

Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) Foreign Portfolio equity investment has also accelerated globally. Cross border transaction in bonds and equity have also increased in most countries to 150-200% of GDP in the recent past.

3.

Trade – The pace of world trade has accelerated reaching an average annual rate of 6 to 7%. This is more than the world GDP which has risen at an average of 3.5% only. Pace of world trade is slower than pace of world FDI which has risen above 15% per year.

4.

Global Governance by International Organisations – like World Trade Organisation

3 factors show this Deepening economic integration Reduction of import duty rates Increasing cooperation between countries for foreign investment 5.

Business restructuring – Flexibility and Closeness to Market. Many companies had to adapt by: Flexible just in time production systems -

supply of a greater variety of goods in smaller lots

-

offer rapid response to market impulses with minimal inventories.

Moving production- closer to the consumer and securing access to the local market replacing exports with Foreign Direct Investment. Diversification of operations- Shifting resources out of declining sectors or regions and into promising ones. Business Environment Liberalisation: The salient features of New Economic Policy (NEP)-1991 are: Liberalisation (Internal and external) Extending privatisation

Redirecting scarce public sector resources to area where private sector is unlikely to inter Globalisation of the economy Market friendly state. The effects of globalisation can be seen across different sectors of the economy. 1.

Telecom

2.

Insurance

3.

banking and finance

4.

retail sector

5.

pharmaceutical

6.

FMCG

7.

Textiles

8.

Agriculture

9.

Automobiles

Telecom Sector Moved from completely under public control to privatisation Foreign investment upto 72% has been allowed Telecommunications was entirely under the public sector after independence. P o s t s T e l e p h o n e a n d T e l e g r a p h (P T T ) i n 1 9 4 7 u n d e r M i n i s t r y o f Communications 1984-Private companies were allowed to manufacture and market equipment and instruments 1990s – telecom manufacturing delicensed and value added services were opened. Cellular and basic telephony sectors was opened up. 1994 National Telecom Policy- was formulated. Government stimulated domestic private investment and FDI to cover huge capital requirements. New NTP 99 allowed existing operators to shift from fixed license fee to a revenue sharing scheme. 1999-2004 competition was increased with a plan to license additional cellular operation. FDI limit was raised to 49%. 2004-05 Telecom sector has grown by over 23% with the cellular segment. Foreign players growing by 100%. Indian partner with 10% stake is mandatory this may limit the expansion plans if the Indian firm not ready.

The result is there for all to see. Efficiency in the sector has increased and rates have come down. Insurance Sector The most regulated sector of the Indian Economy General insurance business was nationalised under in 1972 . General Insurance Corporation in India (GIC) and its 4 Subsidiaries 1994- Malhotra Committee- recommended bringing down government state in insurance companies to 50% and private companies with minimum paid up capital of Rs 1 bn allowed to enter the industry. Insurance Regulation and Development Authority (IRGA) bill in March 2000. Private players allowed entry. Foreign players to enter with 26% limit on equity capital -

Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Co. Ltd.–Partner Allianz Germany

-

HDFC Standard Life Insurance-Partner Standard Life, UK

-

Max India Ltd-Partner New York Life, USA

-

SBI Life Insurance-Partner Cardiff France.

Banking and Financial sector 1990s- Ten new private banks set up. Financial deregulation and globalisation -

Permitting FIIs to enter Indian markets - raised to 4%, allowed to purchase and sell T–bills

-

Domestic companies allowed to raise capital from abroad (ADRs and GDRs)

-

FII investible stake now raised to 49% by several companies

Banking sector reforms Statutory liquidity ratios reduced to 25%. Cash Reserve Ratio Reduced to 4.5%. Interest rates deregulated Mergers and Acquisitions in the banking sector HDFC bank and Times Bank Stanchart and ANZ Grindlays Successful Mergers

It is better for old banks to merge with modern banks so that they are able to expand their business and induct technology and also to cushions their Non Performing Assets (NPAs) Promotion of Mutual Fund Industry by the government Retail Sector Unorganised sector holds a dominant position Organised share 1.5% of the current 10,00,000 crores retail market-expected to double by 2020. Growth in retail sales 8.5% per year which is higher than the expected 7% growth in consumer expenditure, MNCs joining the market. It will generate employment but great threat to small shops. Better quality products at cheaper rates and price wars may happen These MNCs will bring superior quality, variety to consumers. Use of electronic tools like e-commerce will be added, techniques of home shopping, direct mails and telemarketing are becoming a reality. Pharmaceutical Sector Global presence through companies like Ranbaxy, Cipla and Dr. Reddy’s laboratories. MNCs market share is 35% only, rest catered by domestic companies Need to increase cross-border collaborative research practices Immediate increase in funding and infrastructure by government for R&D WTO decided to enforce a product patent life causing drug prices to remain high when protected by patents Developing countries- should ensure consumers not subjected to huge prices and prevent MNCs from creating cartels, -

increase investment in R&D project

-

support low cost for mulation manufacturers and phar maceutical companies

Product Patent Regime will bring about major changes-Mergers and acquisitions Dr. Reddy’s Lab and Nova Nordisk. Indian company can gain leverage with their low cost formulation. The Costs are 10-20 % of costs in developed countries. Domestic companies can pick up outsourcing (Research & Development) work from MNC pharmaceuticals.

FMCG Sector Fast Moving Consumer Goods Sector FMCG refer to consumer non-durable like toothpastes, soaps, etc required for daily or frequent use Low margin business and profits are from bigger volumes Because of stiff competition stress is on marketing and distribution Brands are the major players influences purchase decisions heavy advertising is required Global Corporations want to expand their investment in India Unilever— renamed Indian- HLL to Unilever India Ltd. creating identity-global brand.

a single

Brand acquisitions very common. P&G acquisition of Balsare Challenge for all FMCG companies retaining employees MNCs take domestic companies MNCs good product portfolios lines professional management offer variety low costs world quality standards Methods to draw rural markets Textile Sector Separate and independent agreement multilaterally negotiated under WTO Quota free trade Contribution to GDP is 4% Provides direct employment to more than 30 million people. Second largest employment provider in India Contribution to Gross export earning 37% less than 1.5% to gross import bill Textile industry is a self reliant industry from raw materials to final product Delicensed in 1991 Increase in FDI inflow. 100% foreign equity participation International commodity materials-high export Developed countries remain deficit.

Agricultural Sector Major issues are presentation of biodiversity subsidised agriculture, import/export of food, shift to cash crops, use of water resources and chemicals, role of government and impact of WTO. Employment in rural areas. Food chain – super markets in food supply Main exports- Tea, coffee, spices, basmati rice, and see food, soybean, fruits vegetable, food product dairy poultry. Import Products- Pulses, rubber, sugar, vegetable, rice, wheat, wool, silk, cotton. Indian Agriculture Constraints- resources, infrastructure institutional technological policy induced limitation New risks of Marginalisation and vulnerability Automobile Sector 4% of GNP and 17% of indirect tax revenue. 1982- 3manufacturers then MUL 1982 1993 delicensing opening up to FDI, 17 new ventures Indian manufacturers 38,00,000 2 wheelers 5,70,000 passenger cars, 1,25,000 multi-utility vehicles, 1,70,000 commercial vehicles, 2,60,000 tractors annually Overseas companies more invest friendly Auto components export target of 2.7 bn US dollars. Automatic approval for foreign equity investment up to 100% of manufacture of automobiles and components to permitted. Tata’s NANO Case Study Tata’s Nano faced many challenges. Industrialisation requires land for development. acquisition of agricultural land for industrial use.

The main issue was the

There is always a concern for the farmers when land is acquired by the government/industrialists. There are many benefits of industrialization. Industrial activity can provide additional jobs to the under-employed and unemployed in rural India. Poverty can be alleviated with a new industrial revolution. People employed in agriculture can be absorbed in the industrial

sector with the GDP rising. In the Land Acquisition (Amendment) Bill 2007 tribal land, agricultural lan d in certain are as w as e xclu ded. B u t c o rp or ate s n ee d l a n d f or industricialisation and the Government is the regulator and the agency through which land is acquired. Political Environment In the Tata’s case CPM the political party in power had sold the land to Tata’s but afterwards the farmers had started agitating. The Trinamool Congress wanted to appease the farmers. The problem was they wanted the Tata’s to shift from there. This was because of the political environment there the government had acquired the Land with Tata’s and they had paid Rs.140 crore to the Singur farmers and Tatas had paid only Rs.20 crore for the land. CPMs defence was that they had only agricultural land so urbanization demands that agricultural land around cities had to be converted to industrial use. Because of the political party changing and farmers agitation which was supported by the political party. The Tata’s had to shift from there. Effect on the economic environment and ancillary industries around. Small local suppliers suffer when a project gets delayed. Their risk is very high. Wherever there is a big industry like Nano being set up, ancillary industries develop in and around the township. Some suppliers had borrowed money for big orders Uncertain market situation Costs involved are skilled labour Exide industries were set up near NANO and that was affected. RICO Auto-another supplier to NANO had to relocate Huge costs are involved-Huge investments are lost. The Economic environment usually changes whenever an industry has to be set up. When land is acquired from farmers it is at a price which is the prevailing market price or maybe lower. When the project starts the price of land around the area shoots up. Then industrial plots for ancillary/other supplier industries are being sold at higher prices. Then the farmers feel cheated. Whether the Land at that time was worth that much or more will always

remain controversial? The SOLUTION The original land owners should always be given an equity in the project. The Industrial Houses should view land owners as stakeholders in development and rehabilitation of their families should be their responsibility. Out right compensation has to be paid They can be made partners in the new venture -

Provision of alternative employment can be made

-

Provision of annual return on their shareholding.

Social and equity concerns over land acquisition has to be addressed by the concerned industry. If need be people around the area can be trained and employed in industry. Agricultural land has to remain protected for ecological sustainable development and biodiversity Other Issues Government needs to have a transparent land acquisition policy. Government and Industry needs to come up with the right compensation. Why do industrialists want land at concessional prices? Companies benefiting from land acquisition-must directly negotiate with land owners.

CHAPTER 3E

Financial System –

It plays

a vital role in the economy



It helps the flow of funds between those who save part of their income to those who invest in productive assets.



It also mobilises and allocates scarce resources.



It is a complex well-integrated set of sub systems of financial institutions, markets, instruments and services which facilitates the transfer and allocation of funds, efficiently and effectively.

Formal









Organised, institutional and regulated system. Financial needs of the modern economy. If efficient system – lowers intermediation costs and services to a wide base.

Linkage

Coexistence

Informal



Unorganised, noninstitutional and non-regulated system.



Traditional and rural spheres of economy.



Flexibility of operations interface between debtor and creditor, transparency.



Higher interest rates.



Money lenders, traders, neighbours, funds

And Cooperation Of both Systems Financial Dualism

Difficult access to deprived sections.

Development of a formal financial system is important as it lowers intermediation costs and services for wide base of savers. Both these systems interact and interpenetration is found in terms of operations, participants, nature of activities.

Components of Financial System Financial Institutions Intermediaries that mobilise savings facilitate allocation of funds/ efficiently. Banking & Non Banking Financial Institution Development Financial Institutions, NBFC Housing Finance Cos Mutual Funds (UTI, Public Sector and Private Sector) Post Reforms Era – Role & Nature of activity Banks – Nonbank activities Financial Institutions – - Banking functions. All resort to financial markets for funds

Financial Market

Financial Instruments

Mech an ism , en ablin g partic ipan ts to deal in financial claims.

Claim against a person for payment of sum of money at a future date……

Dd + requirement –interact to set a Price Organised Mkt.

Money Mkt. ST. Sec.

Controlled by RBI

Securities

Primary

Secondary

Direct

Indirect

Cap Mkt

issued by

Securities

LT Sec. Maturity period of >1 yr.

ultimate

issued by

borrower

fin. intermediaries

Controlled by

to

to

ultimate

ultimate

SEBI

savers

savers

eq. sh/deb

Bank deposit

Primary

Secondary

New issues

Securities Existing sec.

OTC traded

Exch. mkt.

Govt. trading Sec. Mkt. cycle Traded for st. exch. immediate delivery

MF upto Insurance policies

Di ffe rs in te rm s of m a rk eta bility , l i q u i d i t y , reversibility, type of options, re t u rn ri sk & t ra nsa ct i on costs, Help fin mkts & Fin Intermediaries – channalise funds

Financial Services Financial intermediaries (banks + Fin. Inst.) provide key services such as merchant banking leasing, hire purchase, credit rating underwriting, portfolio management. - bridge the gap between lack of knowledge part of investers + increasing Sophistication of financial investment + markets. – Leads to creation of firms, industrial expansion and economic growth.

Financial System and the Economy Real Assets Economy

Tangible (land, resources, buildings equipment)…

Financial Assets (equity, debt, deposits, units, Ins polices)

Intangible (human capital, organisational systems, government)

In every economy there are two types of assets-Real and Financial. Real Assets may be tangible and intangible. Tangible real assets consists of land, natural resources, buildings, equipment, infrastructure and so on. Intangible real assets may include human capital, organisational systems and governments. These real assets have been financed by savings or borrowings. Therefore, real assets represent savings either by the owner or by lenders of surplus savings. Financial Assets, on the other hand, are equity instruments, debt instruments, deposits, units and insurance policies. When savings of people are invested in these instruments, they come into existence. In other words, financial assets, or claims or securities enable transfer of saving for investment. In a modern economy, it is essential for real assets to interact with financial assets for the process of capital formation to take place. M o d e r n e c o n o m i e s a r e c h a r a c t e r i s e d b y (i ) e x p a n d i n g b u s i n e s s organisations, (ii) increasing scale of production (iii) separation of investors and savers and (iv) differences in the attitudes of savers (cautious and averse to taking risk) and investors (dynamic and risk takers) Since there is dichotomy of saving and investment, it is necessary to connect the savers with investors. Savers are connected to the investors by the Financial System. Or savings would be wasted or hoarded if there were no investment opportunity and investment plans would have to be abandoned as no savings would be coming forward. The financial system therefore helps to mobilise saving enabling them to convert investment ideas into realities. This shows that two types of economic units/entities exist. (i)

Surplus-Spending Economic Units. These are units whose current expenditure or consumption is less than their current incomes. Hence, they have savings or surplus money to invest which is in the form of cash

or financial assets. They lend these for productive investment. household sector is a net-surplus spending economic unit.

The

(ii) Deficit Spending Economic Units-They are those units whose current expenditure exceeds their current income. Hence, they have negative savings, so they finance their needs by borrowing or decreasing-their stock of financial assets. When they resort to borrowing, it creates a supply of financial securities. The Government and the Corporate Sector are part of these units. Now, the surplus saving has to be transferred to the deficit spending units. These two types of units need to be brought together and a link is necessary to transfer surplus savings to deficit units. This can be done either directly or indirectly. Directly, they can invest in financial markets i.e. primary securities. Indirectly through intermediation i.e. invest in banks and financial institutions. They issue secondary securities like deposits, insurance policies, and units to ultimate lenders. The ultimate borrowers acquire funds either by issuing primary securities to financial intermediaries or by issuing primary securities in financial markets. This transfer of funds through the financial system from surplus spending units to deficit spending units leads to capital formation and ultimately to economic growth since it is expected that the corporate and government sector will utilise the funds efficiently and effectively. This also accelerates the rate of savings and investment by offering diversified financial services and investments. It helps to promote production of goods to increase output leading to economic growth. This is basically done by transforming wealth to more productive forms. It induces people to hold less savings in the form of metals (gold) real estate and currency. They replace these assets with bonds and shares. Money Markets Market for ST Debt instruments Highly liquid market – market for financial instruments that are close substitutes for money. Instruments of large denominations Market for overnight ST funds and instruments having maturity period of one year or less than 1 yr. No place as such – activity conducted over telephone. RBI and commercial banks are major players.

Financial System and Economic Growth

Secondary securities

Promary Securities Fin. Intermediaries (Banks + Fin. Institutions)

Primary Securities

Primary Securities

Fin. Markets

Financial System

Primary Securities

Primary Securities

Capital Formation

Economic Growth Surplus spending economic units> (+1) – House hold sector

Surplus spending economic units> (+1) – House hold sector

Functions – They facilitate the conduct of the Monetary policy. 1.

To serve as an equilibrium force – balancing mechanism – redistributes cash balances

2.

Basis of management of liquidity and money in the economy by monetary authorities.

3.

Reasonable access to users of ST money for meeting their requirement at realistic prices.

Characteristics 1.

Not a single market but collection of markets for several investments.

2.

Whole sale market of ST debt investments.

3.

Credit worthiness of participants.

4.

Main players — RBI, Discount & Finance House of India (DFHI) Mutual Funds, Banks, Corporate Investors, NBFCs, State Govt., PFs, PSUs, NRIs & Overseas corporate bodies.

5.

Need based market where the demands and supplies of money shape the market.

Efficient money market : Monetary control is more effective. 1.

For banks — stable source of funds in addition to deposits. — allows to manage risks arising from interest rate fluctuations. — Manage maturity structure of assets & liabilities.

2.

Encourages development of non-bank intermediaries. — increases the competition for funds. — Savers – wide array of savings instruments & invest savings accordingly.

3.

Liquid money market. — source of LT finance to borrowers. — Cost of raising funds – is lowered.

4.

Liquid & vibrant money market is necessary for developments of capital market, foreign exchange.

RBI Role (i)

Ensure that liquidity & ST interest rates are maintained at levels consistent with the monetary policy objectives of maintaining price stability.

(ii) Ensure  flow of credit  productive sectors (iii) Order in foreign exchange market. RBI controls by CRR, OMO, change in Bank Rates. Capital Market Market for LT funds – equity & deb. and funds raised within & outside country. Aids  eco growth  mobilising savings  channels of productive uses facilitated through the following measures. (i)

primary securities in primary market. For surplus sector 

diverting cash flow  deficit sectors

(government. & corporate sector)

(ii) Secondary securities in primary market. Surplus sector  cash flow to  financial intermediaries (banking & non banking) (iii) Secondary market — transactions in outstanding securities. — facilitates liquidity — stock market 

liquidity important  since investors.

do not want to lose control for a long time; do not invest in long gestation projects. Quick exit without heavy loss/ costs. Functions of capital market 1.

Disseminate information so that participants may carry on investment disinvestment, reinvestment, holding a particular financial asset.

2.

Enable quick valuation of financial instrument equity & debt.

3.

Provide insurance against market risk or price risk.

4.

Wider participation width of market networking institutions & associating individuals.

5.

Provide operational efficieny. — simplified transaction procedure. — Lowering settlement timings. — Lowering transaction costs.

6.

Develop integration among — Equity & debt instruments. — LT & ST funds — LT & ST interest costs — Pvt & Govt sector — Domestic funds & external funds — Real sector and financial sector.

Capital Market (equity & debt) 1.

Mobilise LT savings to financial LT investment.

2.

Provide risk cap in form of equity to entrepreneurs.

3.

Broader ownership

of productive assets.

4.

Provide liquidity – investor can sell assets.

5.

Lower cost of transaction & information.

6.

Im prove effi ci ency ca pital al lo catio n mechanisms.

through competitive pri ci ng

Money Markets — Capital Market — Strong link. 1.

Financial instruments market.

involved in cap market

involved in money

2.

Funds raised in money market — used to provide liquidity for longer term investment and redemptions of funds in cap. market.

3.

Development of money market capital market.

takes place first then development of

Functions of Financial market. 1.

Enabling economic units to exercise their time preference.

2.

Separation, distribution diversification & reduction of risk.

3.

Efficient pay mechanism

4.

Providing information

5.

Transformation of claims to suit the preference of both savers & borrowers.

6.

Portfolio Management

about companies

Management and Membership of stock exchanges –

Regional Stock Exchange are managed by a governing body consisting of elected and nominated members.

Trading members-who provide broking services own, control and mange the exchange. The Governing Body is given wide powers to elect office bearers, set up committee, expel and admit members, resolve disputes and conduct day to day operations. –

All stock exchanges in India (except Nse and OUTLET) are broker owned and broker controlled. Brokers who trade collectively own and run these exc h an g es. to avoid -m alpractices-price rigg in g, pay m en t crisis mutualisation of stock exchanges and setting up as corporate entity is recommendid.

Demutualised Exchange– Ownership and management of the exchange are separated ffrom the right to trade on exchange. The stock exchange becomes a corporate entity like the OTCEI and NSE.

SEBI –

gives certificate of registration



prescribed code of conduct.

Demutualisation separates ownership and control of stock exchanges from the trading rights of members. Boards have equal representation from brokers, shareholders and investing public. Broker will get trading rights after paying fee fixed by exchange. Members of stock exchange will benefit as their assets become liquid and they get a share of profit as dividend. Demutualisation is a process by which a memberowned organization can become shareholder owned company. Such a company can be listed on the stock exchange and it becomes a corporate entity. The B o m bay Sto ck E xch an ge is m ovin g T ow ards dem u tu ali zati on an d corporatisation. Dematerialisation of securities –

Physical certificates involve problems of forged transfer, delays, and increased paper work.



An electronic book entry form of holding and transferring securities has been introduced.



The investor has an option to hold securities in either physical or dematerialized form. A demat share is hold nad handled electronically. It does not have a folio number, certificate numbers or distinctive number. It is held by a depository on behalf of the investor. This system of electronically holding of shares enables immediate allotment, transfer and registration of securities. This increases the liquidity of stocks.

To expedite–process of dematerialization, SEBI has mandated-compulsory settlement in demat form in certain scrips. Initial public offering are settled only in dematerialsed form All IPOS-issued in Demat form Two depositories National Securities Depository, Ltd. (NSDL) Central Depository Service Ltd. (CDSL) - Bombay Stock Exchange offer trading facility in demat form and more than 99% of turnover is settled in a demat form. ULIP and Mutual Funds In the financial market insurance companies also invest their funds as well as Mutual Funds. Insurance companies have been issuing different kinds of instruments. One very popular hybrid insurance cum investment instrument

is Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs). Insurance companies are regulated by the (IRDA) insurance Regulatory and Development Authority. SEBI is the overall market regulator and its business is to regulate the stock exchanges and the securities industry to protect the interest of the investor. ULIPs had started attracting a lot of funds from investors and the Mutual Funds companies or Asset Management companies had started facing a lot of competition from ULIPs. SEBI had therefore banned 14 insurance players from carrying on their ULIP business. IRDA later on overruled SEBI and asked the insurance companies to continue with their business as usual. The Asset management industry was suffering a set-back as distributors dumped MFs in favour of ULIPs. (This was also because SEBI had banned commissions for Mutual Funds). Comparison of MF and ULIP ULIP

MF

Collection in 2009-10

34,199 crore

Fresh inflows of 6000 crores

2009-10 increasing

72,000 crore

Assets

Reasons

Stagnating at 7,00,000 crores. Also launched MF Schemes with an Insurance cover but Life Insurance Council had banned insurance in 2008. (i) Investing in insurance gets a maximum tax benefit therefore market linked returns were offered. (ii) Insurance companiesoffered high commissions to agents to reach out (30-40%) Despite high costs consumers placed their faith in ULIP.

MF houses are debarred from charging my commission from investors.

After 10 years SEBI decides that ULIP (investments) should be stringently regulated since it is in the capital market (2,40,000 crore is invested in the market through ULIPs). Life Insurance Council gives the following reasons. (i)

Their asset base is growing due to reaching out.

(ii) Private insurers have 8785 offices and LIC 3000 offices spread across 500 cities while MFs have only been able to go to top 50 cities in India.

(iii) Insurance companies issue 4 crore new policies each year MFs total investor base is only 2 to 3 crores. Basically insurers will have to go to zero-commission regime like the Mutual Funds. In any case, investors will benefit. The IRDA controls the insurance sector while SEBI regulates the mutual Funds. Because the insurance companies are investing in the financial markets SEBI had intervened in some matters. Mutual Funds Banks are considered to be the most trusted with savings by the Indian Investor. The share of Banks in the financial savings of the household sector has increased from 48% in 2006-07to 55% (2008-09). But share of Mutual funds declines from 5.3% to 1.4%. Banks are launching their own Asset Management Companies. SBI and its associates

SBI Magnum MF

Bank of Baroda

Baroda Pioneer MF

Canara bank

Canara Robeco MF

IDBI

IDBI MF

AXIS BANK

AXIS MF

ICICI

ICICI Prudential MF

Kotak Mahindra

Kotak MF

MF houses are debarred from charging any commission from investors or entry load at the time of investment. SEBI has debarred. Earlier 2.5% flat fee was charged from the investors by the Fund houses which was used by them to pay their distributors for their services. Therefore, the distributors also have pulled themselves back (no advisory and servicing to investors) and boycotting sale of MF products. They are promoting other high incentive earning financial products. ULIPs -

They are highly popular with distributors

-

Distributors are well compensated by insurance companies (added on to the cost to the consumer)

-

Premium allocation charges (PAC) investor pays each time a ULIP is bought

-

4% and 100% of the premium paid in the first year 2-4% in 2 nd year, 2-4% of 3rd year.

ULIP - premium of Rs.10,000 for 3 years for a 10 year ULIP term. - PAC structure as 14% in (I) year, 4% in (II) year, 2% in (III) year. - Total Premium of Rs.30,000/- paid by investor 28000/- gets invested by the III year and 2000 is used by the insurance company to meet distribution and other marketing expenses - Other changes like policy administration,mortality charge, fund mgt. Charge misc. charges. - An added advantage-insurance cover on life equivalent to five times the premium paid by investor - long term investment product. - Early exit from ULIP results in heavy loss to the investor. - Loss of heavy premium (paid in the initial years) - Attract surrender charges

MF -

-

Rs.10,000 per annum invested for 3 years Under the no-old regime the entire sum of Rs.30,000/- gets invested Fund management fee (charged annually) by adjusting the net asset value of the fund. Short term investment Offers easy exit route If investment is redeemed within 1 year -early exit charge of 0.5-1.6 of the fund value and no penal charges.

CHAPTER 3F

Marketing

1.

Topic: Marketing

2.

Content: Concept of Marketing Valuing Customers Customer Relationship Management What influences Customer Behaviour? Creating brand equity

3.

Objectives: To define marketing Explain the importance of understanding customers To discuss customer driven marketing strategy To discuss customer relationship management and identify strategies for creating value for customers and capturing value from customers in return Gathering information and scanning the environment Designing a customer driven marketing strategy Customer Relationship Management- forming strong customer bonds, maintaining data warehouses What influences customer behavior? Creating brand equity

4.

Learning Resources: a) Source: Marketing Management, by Philip Kotler, Kevin Lane Keller, Abraham Koshy and Mithileshwar Jha- (A South Asian Perspective) b) Web sites- nirma.com, marutisuzuki.com, nokia.com, kellogg’sindia.com, google, amulindia,

Concept of Marketing Founder of Wal-Mart, Sam Walton once asserted that, “There is only one boss, the customer. And he can fire anybody in the company from the chairman down, simply by spending his money elsewhere.” Example: Nirma

Founded by a Gujarati entrepreneur Karsanbhai Patel, in 1969 in his backyard. He sold the detergent door to door with a money back guarantee. Things you did not know about Nirma: i.

Nirma is named after Dr.Karsanbhai Patel’s daughter.

ii. “Dudh si safedi Nirma se aye, rangin kapada bhi khil khil jaye” this jingle has been used by Nirma for the last 25 years. iii. Nirma’s radio spot has been aired without a break for 28 years. iv. Nirma is one of the largest selling detergent brands in the world. v. Nirma was launched at Rs. 3 per kilo. Brand Values_ Nirma believes in creating value for money and it is synonymous with value for money. The brand believes in offering consumers better products, better value for better living. Two fold goal of marketing: To attract customers by offering superior value Continue to give current customers value Customer Value and Satisfaction When faced by an array of products, customers form expectations about the value and satisfaction that various market offerings will deliver and buy accordingly. Satisfied customers buy again and tell others about their good experiences. Marketers must be careful to set the right level of expectations. Low expectations will satisfy those who buy but will not attract enough buyers. A very

high expectation will disappoint customers. Gathering Information and Scanning the Environment The marketing environment in India is undergoing a rapid transformation and this is particularly significant in Indian companies. Changes in government regulations and economic policies, forces of globalization and competition and the evolving nature of consumpti on behavior are providing si gnificant opportunities. Many companies are utilizing the opportunities that are emerging in the changing environment. Videocon: Videocon has become the largest producer of picture tubes after acquiring the picture tube business of Thomson Electronics. Mahindra & Mahindra: This Company skillfully responded to the changes in the operating environment by realigning their product and brand portfolio, redesigning existing brands and introducing new market offers. Pizza Hut: They have the largest fast-food customer warehouse in the world, with 40 million households or between 40 to 50 percent of the U.S. market. The millions of customer records are gleaned from point-of -sale transactions at its restaurants. Pizza Hut can slice and dice data by favourite toppings, date of last order etc. By this Pizza Hut is able to target its marketing to find the best coupon offers for each household and predict the success of campaigns.

Example: Maruti Suzuki India’s first ‘peoples’ car’. It caught the fancy of the middle class. Completed 25 years of leadership in the car market. The first car rolled out on December 14 th, 1983. The proud owner Harpal Singh drives the car to this day. Every 30 seconds a car rolls off from the Maruti’s Gurgaon plant. Brand Values: Consistently remained a people’s car High quality, fuel efficiency, competitive low pricing

Excellent after sales service anywhere in India I.

Customer value- a customer will purchase a product only if it is perceived to be giving greatest benefit or value for the money. The marketer therefore has to add value to the product so that it is preferred to a competing product.

II.

Exchange mechanism- Exchange is the act of obtaining a desired object from someone by offering something in return. Marketing consists of actions taken to build and maintain desirable exchange relationships with target audiences involving a product, service, idea or other object.

Designing a customer driven Marketing Strategy Marketing management is the art and science of choosing target markets and building profitable relationships with them. The marketing manager’s aim is to find, attract, keep and grow target customers by creating delivering and communicating superior customer value. A winning marketing strategy must answer two important questions: What customers will we serve (what is our target market?) How can we serve these customers best? (What is our value proposition?) The company must first decide who it will serve. It does this by dividing the market into segments, which is known as Market Segmentation. Example: Nokia A Finnish multinational. It is the world’s largest manufacturer of mobile telephones. Nokia produces mobile phones for every major market segment and protocol, in clu din g GSM , CDMA, and W-CDMA (UMTS ). Nokia’s subsidiary Nokia Siemens Networks produces telecommunications equipments, solutions and services. In 2006, Nokia generated revenue that for the first time exceeded the state budget of Finland. Finns have ranked Nokia many times as the best Finnish brand and employer. Nokia has divided its world market into 12 market segments. For exampleUS, Japan markets, Indian markets, high tech users, first time users etc. The needs of these various segments vary. The company invests extensively in R & D to create value these categories of consumers. Selecting which segments a company will go after- Target Marketing.

Example: The Ritz Carlton Hotel Chain A chain of luxury hotels catering to top 5 per cent of corporate and leisure travelers. (target marketing) The company sets lofty customer service goals. The Ritz-Carlton experience enlivens the senses, instills well-being and fulfills even unexpressed wishes and needs of guests. Rated as the best hotel in the United States and fourth in the world. (“The staff can’t do enough to please”, they treat us like kings!) More than 90% of the customers return! Despite its hefty room rates, the chain enjoys 70% occupancy rate, almost nine points above industry average! Employees are not hired or recruited; they only want people who care about people. At the Ritz Carlton there is no negotiating when it comes to solving customers’ problems. Therefore marketing management is customer management and demand management. Choosing a ‘Value Proposition’ Value proposition differentiates one brand from another. They answer the question “why should I buy your brand rather than a competitor’s? Companies must design strong value propositions that give them the greatest advantage in their target markets. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) The overall process of building and managing profitable customer relationships by delivering superior customer value and satisfaction. Customer Perceived Value: The customer’s evaluation of difference between all the benefits and all the costs of a market offering relative to those of competing offers. Customer Satisfaction: The extent to which a product’s perceived performance matches a buyer’s expectations. Forming Strong Customer Bonds Example: Apple: Apple encourages owners to form local Apple-user groups. By 2001, there were over 600 groups ranging from 25 members to 1000 members. The

user groups provide Apple owners with opportunities to learn more about their computers, share ideas and get product discounts. They sponsor special activities and events and perform community service. Harley Davidson: The world famous Motorcycle Company sponsors the Harley Owners Group (HOG), which now numbers 6, 50,000 members in 1,200 chapters. A first time buyer gets a free one year membership. HOG benefits include a magazine called Hog Tales, a touring book, emergency road service, a specially designed insurance program, theft reward service, discount hotel rates and fly and ride program enabling members to rent Harleys while in vacation. The company also has an extensive web site providing information on events and members’ section. Maintaining Data Warehouses: A customer data base is an organized collection of comprehensive information about individual customer or prospects for marketing purposes.

American Express: Its no wonder that, at its secret location in Phoenix, USA security guards watch over American Express’s 500 billion bytes of data on how the customers have used the company’s 35 million green gold and platinum charge cards. Amex uses the database to include precisely targeted offers in its monthly mailing of millions of customer bills. What influences Customer Behaviour? Marketers must fully understand both the theory and reality of customer behaviour. A customer’s buying behaviour is influenced by cultural, social and personal factors. Cultural factors exert the broadest and deepest influence. Kellogg India:

When Kellogg launched its cornflakes in the Indian market, the response from the customers was not very encouraging. The company conducted a market research and discovered that Indians prefer hot milk with cornflakes whereas “crispiness” benefit that it was claiming could be delivered only when the cornflakes were mixed with cold milk. Converting a low involvement product to a higher involvement product. Kellogg now advertises its product as “powered with iron shakti” to highlight that it helps

to take care of iron deficiency in women and kids. Solutions to enhance customer revenue: ITC e-Choupal- in order to help farmers earn a better price for their produce. Through a network of computers with internet connectivity, farmers can obtain the daily closing prices of local mandis as well as track global price trends. They can get information about new farming techniques; can order seeds, fertilizers and other products at lower prices. During harvest time ITC offers to buy directly from any farmer at the previous day’s closing price, the farmer then transports the crops which are weighed electronically and assessed for quality. Creating Brand Equity: Brand equity is the added value endowed to products and services. This value may be reflected in how customers think, feel and act with respect to the brand as well as the prices, market share and profitability that the brand commands for the firm. Brand equity is an important intangible asset that has psychological and financial value to the firm.

Google: founded in 1998 by two Stanford University Ph.D. students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin search engine Google’s name is a play on the word googol the number represented by a 1 followed by 100 zeros- a reference to the huge amount of data online. With 200 million search requests daily the company has turned a profit by focusing on searches alone and not adding other services as was the case with other portals. By focusing on pain texts, avoiding ads and using sophisticated search algorithms, Google provides fast and reliable service. In perhaps the ultimate sign of success, the brand is now often used as a verb- “to google” is to search online. Based on the public poll of the brand that made the most impact in their lives, Google was named “brand of the year” in 2002. Incredible India: advertisement promoting tourism in India focuses on various tourist destinations in India.

Amul: Amul Butter Girl

Edited from an article by Mini Varma published in The Asian Age on March 3, 1996 The moppet who put Amul on India’s breakfast table 50 years after it was first launched, Amul’s sale figures have jumped from 1000 tonnes a year in 1966 to over 25,000 tonnes a year in 1997. No other brand comes even close to it. All because a thumb-sized girl climbed on to the hoardings and put a spell on the masses. Bombay: Summer of 1967. A Charni Road flat. Mrs. Sheela Mane, a 28-yearold housewife is out in the balcony drying clothes. From her second floor flat she can see her neighbours on the road. There are other people too. The crowd seems to be growing larger by the minute. Unable to curb her curiosity Sheela Mane hurries down to see what all the commotion is about. She expects the worst but can see no signs of an accident. It is her four-year-old who draws her attention to the hoarding that has come up overnight. “It was the first Amul hoarding that was put up in Mumbai,” recalls Sheela Mane. “People loved it. I remember it was our favourite topic of discussion for the next one week! Everywhere we went somehow or the other the campaign always seemed to crop up in our conversation.” Call her the Friday to Friday star. Round eyed, chubby cheeked, winking at you, from strategically placed hoardings at many traffic lights. She is the Amul moppet everyone loves to love. How often have we stopped, looked, chuckled at the Amul hoarding that casts her sometime as the coy, shy Madhuri, a bold sensuous Urmila or simply as herself, dressed in her little polka dotted dress and

a red and white bow, holding out her favourite packet of butter. For 30 odd years the Utterly Butterly girl has managed to keep her fan following intact. So much so that the ads are now ready to enter the Guinness Book of World Records for being the longest running campaign ever. The ultimate compliment to the butter came when a British company launched butter and called it Utterly Butterly, last year.

One of the first Amul hoardings

Tata: No other example can justify the might of Brand Tata Motors than the man himself; he has been all along and still going strong-Ratan Tata, that’s how you describe the joy of thinking ‘Nano’. The one lakh car is expected to hit the market in2009 and will undercut Maruti 800 in both pricing and practicality. Who would have thought that a truck maker would challenge the dominance of the small car maestro Suzuki!! What Tata has is unparalleled ‘brand equity’ of the group. Ratan Tata knows that for an upwardly mobile client, wanting a sensible car, operational cost is the major influencing factor. The nano car is so affordable that it will most definitely change the prevailing competitive conditions in the four wheeler market, potentially making Tata Motors the number one player in the Indian market by

volumes, what with even the 2008 budget reducing the excise duty on small cars by nearly 4% to make them more affordable. The world’s ten most valuable brands: 1.

Coca-Cole

2.

Microsoft

3.

IBM

4.

GE

5.

Intel

6.

Disney

7.

McDonald’s

8.

Nokia

9.

Toyota

10. Marlboro (Source: Marketing Management, by Philip Kotler, Kevin Lane Keller, Abraham Koshy and Mithileshwar Jha- A South Asian Perspective) India’s ten most trusted brands: 1.

Colgate

2.

Lux

3.

Dettol

4.

Pond’s

5.

Tata Salt

6.

Life Insurance Corporation of India

7.

Vicks

8.

Britannia

9.

Rin

10. Bata (Source: Marketing Management, by Philip Kotler, Kevin Lane Keller, Abraham Koshy and Mithileshwar Jha- A South Asian Perspective) Value Pricing: It is not a matter of simply setting lower prices; it is also a matter of reengineering the company’s operation to become a low cost producer without sacrificing quality and lowering prices significantly to attract a large number of value-conscious customers.

Recently several companies have adopted value pricing, in which they win loyal customers by charging a fairly low price for a high quality offering. For example Wal-Mart, IKEA, Southwest Airlines, Big Bazaar, Bata, Peter England etc. An important type of value pricing is ‘everyday low pricing’ Managing Channels: They are sets of interdependent organizations involved in the process of making a product or service available for use or consumption. They are a set of pathways a product or a service follows after production culminating in purchase or use by the final end user. Titan Watches: Titan sells its watches through seven different channels: World of Titan, Time Zone, Value Mart Outlets, Sonata Stores, Signet Club, Tanishq Boutiques, and private multi brand outlets. These channels some of which are only present in select cities provide Titan with a wide coverage, cover different price points, and target different segments of customers. It helps Titan generate sale volumes while protecting its brand image. Managing Logistics: Dabbawalas: The dabbawalas of Mumbai are givers of food to over 2, 00,000 Mumbai office goers, have inspired a whole range of people from ordinary youth, unemployed youth to Prince Charles; from young management students eager to understand the basics of logistics and teamwork to management gurus like C.K.Prahlad. Their origin reportedly goes back more than 100 years. The organization was registered in 1968 and assumed its current decentralized form in 1970. About 5,000 dabbawalas are divided into subgroups of 15 to 20. Experienced old timers are familiar with the coding scheme for the identification of the lunch boxes and the complex logistics system. Apart from taking key responsibility in sorting the lunchboxes, they also perform leadership roles like handling disputes, acquiring new customers, and training new recruits. They pick up about 2,00,000 lunchboxes from the homes between 7A.M and 9 A.M. and reach them to the waiting clients (students, managers, , workers) by 12:30P.M., making no more than one mistake in about eight million delivery, all this for a monthly charge of Rs.150-300. Achieving this quality standard while handling 2, 00,000 lunchboxes, using on an average 25 kilometers of public transport. 10 kilometers footwork and involving multiple transfer points, is not just a masterpiece of elegant logistics management, it’s learning in teamwork, leadership vision and entrepreneurial capability inherent in Indian culture.

CHAPTER 3G

Consumer Protection In the 20th century, the presence and influence of the market grew dramatically in consumer life. We began to purchase things from the market for a price. Soon, mass production and industrial production came into being, giving the consumer world an entirely new dimension. This over-dependence on the market and the inherent profit motive in mass production and sales has given manufacturers and dealers a good reason to exploit consumers. Consumers not only do not get value for their money but also often have to suffer losses and inconvenience due to market manipulations. Who is a consumer? Under the Consumer Protection Act 1986, the word Consumer has been defined separately for the purpose of goods and services. For the purpose of “goods”, a consumer means a person belonging to the following categories: i)

One who buys or agrees to buy any goods for a consideration which has been paid or promised or partly paid and partly promised or under any system of deferred payment

ii)

It includes any user of such goods other than the person who actually buys goods and such use is made with the approval of the purchaser.

Note: A person is not a consumer if he purchases goods for commercial or resale purposes. However, the word “commercial” does not include use by consumer of goods bought and used by him exclusively for the purpose of earning his livelihood, by means of self employment.

For the purpose of “services”, a “consumer” means a person belonging to the following categories: i)

One who hires or avails of any service or services for a consideration which has been paid or promised or partly paid and partly promised or under any system of deferred payment

ii)

It includes any beneficiary of such service other than the one who actually hires or avails of the service for consideration and such services are availed with the approval of such person.

Concept of Consumer Protection Consumer protection means safeguarding the interest and rights of consumers. In other words, it refers to the measures adopted for the protection of consumers from unscrupulous and unethical malpractices by the business and to provide them speedy redressal of their grievances. The most common business malpractices leading to consumer exploitation are given below. a)

Sale of adulterated goods i.e., adding something inferior to the product being sold.

b)

Sale of spurious goods i.e., selling something of little value instead of the real product.

c)

Sale of sub-standard goods i.e., sale of goods which do not confirm to prescribed quality standards.

d)

Sale of duplicate goods.

e)

Use of false weights and measures leading to underweight.

f)

Hoarding and black-marketing leading to scarcity and rise in price.

g)

Charging more than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) fixed for the product.

h)

Supply of defective goods.

i)

Misleading advertisements i.e., advertisements falsely claiming a product or service to be of superior quality, grade or standard.

j)

Supply of inferior services i.e., quality of service lower than the quality agreed upon.

The above instances show the exploitation of consumers in the context of goods and services. Rights of a Consumer Protection and promotion of consumer’s rights and interests is a vital function of the Government of any economy. It is basically a social and political necessity and is essential for all round progress of the country. In rapidly changing business environment and emerging global markets, expectations of the people of the country for better services, quality goods, availability of choices and value for money has been continuously rising. Accordingly, both public and private sectors are undertaking several policy initiatives, schemes and incentives to promote consumers’ welfare in the country. They are making all efforts to ensure that consumers are provided with every relevant information in order to avoid any kind of exploitation and given a rational choice in selection of products and services from the market.

John F, Kennedy, the former USA President, in his message to consumer had given six rights to consumers. These rights are (i) right to safety, (ii) right to be informed, (iii) right to choose, (iv) right to be heard, (v) right to redress and (vi) right to represent. These rights had paved the way for organised consumer movement in the USA and later it spread all over the world. In India, the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 has also provided for the same rights to consumers. The Section 6 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 has defined six basic rights of the consumers. Let us have a brief idea about these rights of consumers.

(a) Right to Safety Means right to be protected against the marketing of goods and services, which are hazardous to life and property. It is the right of the consumers to be protected against goods and services which are hazardous to health or life .The purchased goods and services availed of should not only meet their immediate needs, but also fulfill long term interests For example, defective vehicles could lead to serious accidents. The same is true of electrical appliances with sub-standard material. Only recently, there were mass protests and boycott of soft drinks due to presence of hazardous pesticides beyond permissible limits. Thus, right to safety is an important right available to the consumer which ensures that the manufacturers shall not produce and sell sub-standard and dangerous products. Before purchasing, consumers should insist on the quality of the products as well as on the guarantee of the products and services. They should preferably purchase quality marked products such as ISI, AGMARK, etc

(b) Right to be Informed: Means right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and price of goods so as to protect the consumer against unfair trade practices. The right to be informed is an important component of consumer protection. The consumer must be provided with adequate and accurate information about quality, quantity, purity, standard and the price of the goods and services. Now-a-days the manufacturers provide detailed information about the contents of the product, its quantity, date of manufacturing, date of expiry, maximum retail price, precautions to be taken, etc. on the label and package of the product. Such information helps the consumers in their buying decision and use of the product. Consumer should also insist on getting all the information about the product or service before making a choice or a decision. This will enable him to act wisely

and responsibly and also enable him to desist from falling prey to high pressure selling techniques.

Red Label to be shown on Non-Veg eatables

Green Label to be shown on Veg eatable

(c) Right to Choose Means right to be assured, wherever possible of access to variety of goods and services at competitive price. The right to choose provides that the consumer must be assured, whenever possible, access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices. If the market has enough varieties of products at highly

competitive prices, the buyers have an opportunity of wide selection. However, incase of monopolies like railways, postal service and electricity supply etc., it means right to be assured of satisfactory quality and service at a fair price. It also includes right to basic goods and services. This is because unrestricted right of the minority to choose can mean a denial for the majority of its fair share. This right can be better exercised in a competitive market where a variety of goods are available at competitive prices.

(d) Right to be Heard Means that consumer’s interests will receive due consideration at appropriate forums. It also includes right to be represented in various forums formed to consider the consumer’s welfare. For e.g. if you have been cheated in the market place or deprived of the right quality of service, your complaint should be heard and given due attention by the authorities. Consumers should also have a right to voice their opinion when rules and regulations pertaining to them are being formulated, like the recent amendments in the Consumer Protection Act. The right to be heard holds special significance in the Indian context because Indian consumers are largely unaware of their rights and passively accept their violation. Even when they have legal recourse, they prefer not to use it for fear of getting embroiled in legal complexities.

To allay consumer fears and to allow them to express their views and grievances, consumer forums have been in existence in India for a long time. Consumers have been approaching these forums and consumer NGOs regarding their problems and complaints. The rights to safety, information and choice will be frivolous without the right to be heard. This right has three interpretations. Broadly speaking, this right means that consumers have a right to be consulted by Government and public bodies when decisions and policies are made affecting consumer interests. Also, consumers have a right to be heard by manufactures, dealers and advertisers about their opinion on production, marketing decisions and any grievances of the consumers. Now-a-days, most of the top manufacturers and firms have set up consumer service cells to attend to consumers’ complaints and take appropriate steps for their redressal. Thirdly, consumers have the right to be heard in legal proceedings in law courts dealing with consumer complaints. (e) Right to Seek Redressal Means right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices or unscrupulous exploitation of consumers. The consumers have been given the right of redressal of their grievances relating to the performance, grade, quality etc. of the goods and services. It also includes right to fair settlement of the genuine grievances of the consumer. If required, the product must be repaired / replaced by the seller/ manufacturer. Consumers must make complaint for their genuine grievances. Many a times their complaint may be of small value but its impact on the society as a whole may be very large. They can also take the help of consumer organisations in seeking redressal of their grievances. The Consumer Protection Act has duly provides for a fair settlement of genuine grievances of the consumers. It has also set up a proper mechanism for their redressal at district, state and national levels. Consumer Online Resource and Empowerment Centre In 2005, the government set up the Consumer Online Resource and Empowerment Centre (CORE) to provide fast and convenient grievance redressal services as well as consumer resources to the citizens of India. The Consumer Coordination Council , a premier organization in the field of consumer movement of India, recommended the setting-up of the CORE Centre. With a view to promote Consumer Sovereignty, CORE works in the interest of consumers to resolve their complaints and avoid unnecessary litigation for brands. It is both an effective one point source for complaint redressal as well as a nodal agency to protect the interests of Indian Consumers.

(f) Right to Consumer Education It means the right to acquire the knowledge and skill to be an informed consumer throughout life. Ignorance of consumers, particularly of rural consumers, is mainly responsible for their exploitation. They should know their rights and must exercise them. Only then real consumer protection can be achieved with success. In this direction the consumer associations, educational institutions and the policy makers can play an important part. They are expected to impart information and knowledge about (i)

the relevant laws which are aimed at preventing unfair trade practices,

(ii) the ways and means which dishonest traders and producers may adopt to deceive the consumers, (iii) insistence on a bill or receipt at the time of purchase, and The procedure to be followed by consumers while making complaints. Effective consumer education leads to an increased level of consumer awareness and help them to enforce their rights more effectively, and protect themselves against fraudulent, deceitful and grossly misleading advertisement, labeling, etc. Submit Your Complaint Online One of the most easy and hassle free ways to file a consumer complaint is through the online mechanism of ‘CORE’. All that citizens need to do is visit the CORE website and fill in the online form. This form requires customers to categorize the product, provide their contact details and submit detailed information about the nature of their complaint. A complaint once registered is forwarded to the complaint manager, who checks it for legitimacy. The staff may also contact you, to determine if there is a legal remedy or a basis for your complaint. On your complaint being found genuine, an alert is sent to the Brand (provider of the product or service) for resolution. It is also published as an entry in the blog, on the CORE website. On receipt of the alert, the brand replies to the complaint online. This reply is posted in the blog, directly below the complaint entry filed by you. Once the reply is published, the system alerts the consumer who is asked to comment on his /her satisfaction with the reply. If the complainant is satisfied, the case is considered closed. However, if the complainant is not satisfied, he/she can write back to CORE in confidence. On receipt of the grievance, the concerned CORE Complaint Manager may once again take up the issue with the brand for amicable resolution.

Responsibilities of Consumers Let us now have an idea about the duties and responsibilities of consumers. These include the following:

(a) Be quality conscious To put a stop to adulteration and corrupt practices of the manufacturers and traders, it is the duty of every consumer to be conscious of the quality of product they buy. They should look for the standard quality certification marks like ISI, A gm a rk , F P O , Wo o l m a rk , E c o - m ar k, H a l l m a rk et c . w hi l e m ak i ng th e

p u rch a se.

(b) Beware of misleading advertisements: The advertisement often exaggerates the quality of products. Hence, the consumers should not rely on the advertisement and carefully check the product or ask the users before making a purchase. Incase there are discrepancies, the same should be brought to the notice of the sponsors and the appropriate authority, if need be. (c) Responsibility to inspect a variety of goods before making selection The consumer should inspect a variety of goods before buying the goods and service. For this purpose he/she should compare their quality, price, durability,

after sales service etc. This would enable the consumers to make the best choice within the limit of their own resources.

(d) Collect proof of transaction The consumer should insist on a valid documentary evidence (cash memo/invoice) relating to purchase of goods or availing of any services and preserve it carefully. Such proof of purchase is required for filing a complaint. In case of durable goods the manufactures generally provide the warrantee/guarantee card along with the product. It is the duty of consumers to obtain these documents and ensure that these are duly signed, stamped and dated. The consumer must preserve them till the warrantee/ guarantee period is over.

(e) Consumers must be aware of their rights The consumers must be aware of their rights as stated above and exercise them while buying goods and services. For example, it is the responsibility of a consumer to insist on getting all information about the quality of the product and ensure himself/ herself that it is free from any kind of defects.

f) Complaint for genuine grievances As a consumer if you are dissatisfied with the product/services, you can ask for redressal of your grievances. In this regard, you must file a proper claim with the company first. If the manufacturer/company does not respond, then you can approach the forums. But your claim must state actual loss and the compensation claim must be reasonable. At no cost fictitious complaints should be filed otherwise the forum may penalize you. Bad Complains Consumers at Fault S B Ghosh had purchased a Premier Padmini BE car through an authorised dealer. At the time of purchase, the complainant did not notice any defect in the car. On the other hand, he duly signed a customer delivery receipt without pointing out any defect. Later, on the same day, he wrote a letter to the manufacturer pointing out certain defects. The manufacturer asked the complainant to take the car to the dealer for rectification of the defects. The complainant did not choose to do so. On the other hand, the car was said to have been kept idle exposed to sun and rain for more than two years and subjected to vagaries of many seasons. Deciding cross appeals, the National Commission held there is no justification for directing the manufacturer and the dealer to repair the car completely and make it as good as new one. The State Commission was also not justified in ordering the payment of compensation as the manufacturer or the dealer never refused to rectify any defects. The appeal of the manufacturer was accepted. Manufacturer and dealer were awarded costs of Rs 3000 and Rs 2000, respectively to be recoverable form the complainant. (Adapted from How to Survive as a Consumer, Pradeep S Mehta, CUTS, 1998) (g) Proper use of product/services It is expected from the consumers that they use and handle the product/services properly. It has been noticed that during guarantee period, people tend to reckless use of the product, thinking that it will be replaced during the guarantee period. This practice should be avoided. Apart from the responsibility enumerated above, the consumers should be conscious of their duty towards other consumers, society and ecology and make responsible choice. In other words, their purchases and consumption should not lead to waste of natural resources and energy and environmental pollution.

Redressal Mechanism as per the Consumer Protection Act Who Can File A Complaint? A complainant in relation to any goods or services may be filed byA consumer or Any voluntary consumer association registered under the Companies Act, 1956 (1of 1956)or under any other law for the time being in force or The Central Government or any State Government; or One or more consumers, where there are numerous consumers having the same interest or In case of death of a consumer, his legal heir or representative A power of attorney holder cannot file a complaint under the Act. What Constitutes a Complaint A complaint means any allegation in writing made by a complainant thatAn unfair trade practice or a restrictive trade practice has been adopted by any trader or service provider The goods bought by him or agreed to be bought by him; suffer from one or more defects The services hired or availed of or agreed to be hired or availed of by him suffer from deficiency in any respect A trader or service provider, as the case may be, has charged for the goods or for the service mentioned in the complaint a price in excess of the price fixed by or under any law for the time being in force or displayed on the goods or any package containing such goods or displayed on the price list exhibited by him by or under any law for the time being in force or agreed between the parties Goods which will be hazardous to life and safety when used or being offered for sale to the public Services which are hazardous or likely to be hazardous to life and safety of the public when used, are being offered by the service provider which such person could have known with due diligence to be injurious to life and safety. How to File a Complaint A complaint can be filed on a plain paper. It should containThe name description and address of the complaints and the opposite party

The Facts relating to complaint and when and where it arose. Documents in support of allegations in the complaint The relief which the complainants is seeking The complaint should be signed by the complainants or his authorized agent. No lawyer required for filing the complaint Nominal court fee Where to File a Complaint (depends upon the cost of the goods or services or the compensation asked) ? District Forum: if it is less than Rs.20 lakhs State Commission: if more than Rs.20 lakhs but less then Rs.1 crore National Commission: if more than Rs.1 crore Integrated Three Stage Consumer Complaint Redressal Mechanism This mechanism includes Consumer Online Research and Empowerment (CORE) Centre, National Consumer Helpline (NCH) and Consumer Voice at Level 1 and FICCI Alliance For Consumer Care at Level 2. While, at Level 3 is the Non Litigation Mechanism or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

(Adapted from http://business.gov.in/consumer_rights/consumer_complaints.php)

Remedies Granted under the Act The District Forum / State Commission / National Commission may pass one or more of the following orders to grant relief to the aggrieved consumer :1)

To remove the defects pointed out by the appropriate laboratory from goods in question;

2)

To replace the goods with new goods of similar description which shall be free from any defect; THE UT Consumer Forum has yet again reprimanded HCL Infinet, Nokia Care Centre, Sector 22, Chandigarh, for not repairing and providing satisfactory service to its customer. The centre has been directed to repair or replace the defective mobile set free of cost within 30 days along with a compensation of Rs 1,000 on account of mental harassment and agony which the complainant had to undergo. Rajeev Verma, the complainant in the case, a resident of Sector 22-C, Chandigarh, had moved the forum maintaining that he had purchased a Nokia mobile handset for an amount of Rs 16,500 from the aforesaid centre. Rajeev alleged that soon after the purchase, the mobile started malfunctioning, due to which he approached the centre for its repair. However, the centre was not able to repair the defective mobile. Aggrieved by this, the complainant moved the UT Consumer Forum, which held the centre guilty of not repairing the mobile in time. The forum has directed the centre to repair the mobile set or replace the handset within a period of 30 days along with a compensation of Rs 1,000. http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=203171

3)

To return to the complainant the price, or, as the case may be, the charges paid by the complainant; SUPPLYING a defective printer to its customer has landed Compu Plaza, Sector 20-C, Chandigarh, into trouble. Holding the latter guilty, the UT Consumer Forum has directed it to pay back Rs 4,400- the original price of the printer- and Rs 1,500 as compensation and Rs 500 on account of costs of litigation. The complainant in the case, Vijay Kumar Verma, a resident of Sector 28-D, Chandigarh, had approached the Forum alleging deficiency in service against Compu Plaza and M/s Redington India Limited. Verma had purchased an HCL computer unit along with an HP printer, scanner and copier 1410 for Rs 4,400. The total amount came to Rs 30,700. Verma alleged that the printer, scanner and copier stopped working soon after printing 15-20 pages. He reported the defect to the dealer, which sent one of its employees to repair the printer. However, the employee was not able to fix the defect. The complainant claimed that he took the printer to their service centre for repair and the same was returned to him after few days without removing the defects. Verma said he was told

by the dealer firm to get the cartridges exchanged from M/s Ingram Micro India Limited, Industrial Area, Chandigarh. The firm declined to change the cartridges as the same did not match the printer. The complainant moved the Forum after that. Notices were issued to the two respondents. While nobody from the side of Compu Plaza turned up, the counsel of M/s Redington India Limited took the plea that it was not aware of the transaction of the sale of printer by Compu Plaza to the complainant. Redington further denied all the allegations. The Forum held the two companies guilty of deficiency in service for supplying defective printer to Verma. http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=201004

4)

To pay such amount as may be awarded by it as compensation to the consumer for any loss or injury suffered by the consumer due to negligence of the opposite party; A ration shop supplied a ration card-holder oil adulterated with known toxic adulterants. The complainant, and his family, as a result of that oil consumption suffered severely. He was attacked with paralysis of lower limbs and inspite of prolonged treatment he did not recover fully. His wife, inspite of medical treatment, was not able to carry on her ordinary avocation as housewife because of ailment. His two daughters and a son, all growing children were also affected and medical report was that they had severe attack. There educational carrier was doomed. Considering all these facts, the Commission awarded a sum of Rs.1,50,000/- to the complainant and Rs.50,000/- for his wife and Rs.25,000/- to each of the children resulting in awarding of total of Rs.2,75,000/- (Barsad Ali v. Managing Director, West Bengal Essential Commodities Supplies Corp. 1993, CCJ 476). http://consumereducation.in/defectivegood.pdf

5)

To remove the defects or deficiencies in the services in question; The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum has pulled up State Bank of India (SBI), Sector 7, and HDFC Bank, Sector 8, and Kalka branch, for deficiency in service and slapped a penalty of Rs 10,000. The Forum held that as a result of negligence on part of these banks, Jasbir Singh, a resident of Sector 9, Chandigarh, suffered cancellation of his LIC policy and also had to pay Rs 2,000 tax

Singh said he had issued a cheque for Rs 20,000 from his SBI account to SBI Sector 7 branch as the deadline for depositing his LIC premium was approaching. The cheque was sent for clearing by LIC, Kalka, to HDFC Bank, Kalka, on March 25, 2006. However, in the first week of April, Singh came to know that the cheque was not honoured by HDFC bank, Kalka branch. Following this, he had to pay Rs 2,000 as tax. Apart from this, his LIC policy also got cancelled.

On enquiry from HDFC, Kalka, Singh was told that the cheque has been dishonoured because of it being non-MICR/non-standard. But the SBI maintained that the chequebook issued to Singh had been converted to MICR and that HDFC bank refused the cheque without verification of the same. Singh then approached the Sector 8 branch of HDFC but was told the same. He then approached the Consumer Forum. The bench maintained that the complainant has suffered on account of cancellation of his LIC policy. “The SBI has been deficient in service and should have taken due care while issuing the cheque book to the complainant. Similarly, it was the duty of HDFC to present the cheque to State Bank of India for encashment,” reads the decision issued by the bench. http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=242662

6)

To discontinue the unfair trade practice or the restrictive trade practice or not to repeat them; In an order that could help open air ticket-holders in planning their itinerary, the Delhi State Consumer Commission has asked airlines to apprise them about the confirmation of their tickets at least a fortnight in advance. “Whenever open tickets are issued, the minimum expectation of the consumer is that at least he should get the seat by informing 15 days or 20 days or one month in advance,” Justice JD Kapoor, president of the Commission, said. Open tickets, valid for six months, are sold under a particular scheme to travellers and the confirmation of the seats depends on availability. The Commission’s direction came in response to an appeal by Air India Limited against an order of a district consumer forum that had asked it to compensate a couple who had to upgrade their open ticket by paying an additional Rs 20,000 in Toronto while on their way to India. Upholding the forum’s verdict, the Commission asked the government-owned airline to pay Rs 30,000 as compensation within a month to Tarsem Singh Soch and his wife, both residents of Noida in Uttar Pradesh. In 2003, Soch and his wife had gone to Canada after purchasing open pre-paid return tickets from the airline. Hours before embarking on their return journey, they were informed that they would have to get the tickets upgraded by paying Rs 20,000 more, their complaint alleged. “The concept of open ticket does not mean that if it is valid for six months, the person should be asked to wait for six months on the pretext that seats are not available,” it said, adding that such acts amounted to “unfair trade practices”. http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=bf1485af-8524-4fe8b391-690735f8a87b

7)

Not to offer the hazardous goods for sale and to withdraw the hazardous goods from being offered for sale:

8)

To provide for adequate costs to parties. Ram purchased a bottle of popular brand of jam. Luckily, before opening the bottle he spotted a house-fly. As a smart consumer he did not opt for mere exchange with another bottle. He instead approached a Consumer District Forum. He was awarded a compensation of Rs.10,000. The Consumer Court rejected the plea of the manufacturer that the consumer having not consumed the jam had not been harmed and, therefore, the only relief he could ask for was exchange with a new bottle. However, the Court held that had the bottle been opened, company would have never accepted its fault and might have suggested that it was a move to bring a bad name to the company. House-fly in a consumable item was a serious health hazard and it, therefore, warranted punitive damages to be awarded. Likewise, a soft drink which was found to be fungus infected was held to be defective thereby entitling the consumer to claim relief [Naryanan Vyankatkrishnan Iyengar v. Shakti Foods (1994) 2 CPJ 652 (Mah.). Again, bursting of a pressure cooker causing injury to the user shall allow the buyer to claim compensation for defective goods [T.T. (P.) Ltd., v. Akhil Bhartiya Grahak Panchayat II (1996) CPJ 239 NC].

CHAPTER

4

Evaluation This chapter seeks to give importance to evaluation in business studies along with the types of questions. It gives the logic of these questions. Application type questions including case based questions are also discussed. Evaluation is central to the teaching learning process. By evaluation the teacher and the learner can judge the effectiveness of this process. At the same time the questions have to be clearly framed so that this need is fulfilled. Before we go further we have to keep in mind the kinds of evaluation. Kinds of Evaluation Evaluation is of four types 1.

Placement Evaluation/Entry behavior: This type of evaluation finds out the level of previous knowledge of the pupil. It is very important for if the teacher does not know this correctly he/she cannot deliver the complete benefits of curriculum transaction to the child. In business studies for example when the teacher is teaching the ‘Controlling Process’ then it is imperative that the child is familiar with the concept of planning which gives standards against which controlling takes place. Thus some questions can be asked to the child in this regard and this will be part of Placement Evaluation.

2.

Formative Evaluation: This type of evaluation is inbuilt in the teaching learning process. Thus when a part of unit is taught it can be used to test the level of understanding of the child relating to that part. It is done through class tests, assignments and other tests. In business studies for example when the teacher finishes say topic of nature of management as an art, science and profession a test can be administered on this part.

3.

Diagnostic Evaluation: As the name suggests these types of tests are designed to find out the shortcoming s of the learning process. These shortcomings can be in the area of conceptual understanding, lack of application skills and hard spots or any other area. When used with formative evaluation these tests help in diagnosing hard spots of learning and designing steps to remove these difficulties. In Business Studies for example the concepts like Trading on Equity and Marketing Mix are often hard spots for the students. The level of difficulty in these or any other topic can be found out thorough diagnostic test when the topic is taught.

Accordingly a suitable teaching plan can be devised and implemented. 4.

Summative Evaluation: It is the evaluation done at the end of the term or the course. Thus the board or pre board examination or the term end examinations of business studies are the examples of summative evaluation. These do not provide any scope of diagnosis or remediation. These are meant for grading, ranking and promoting the pupil to the next level.

Objectives of Evaluation with Special Reference to Business Studies The objectives of evaluation in business studies have to be linked with the objectives of teaching business studies. The objectives of studying business studies as per the CBSE curriculum 2010 are:1.

To develop in students an understanding of the processes of business and its environment;

2.

To acquaint students with the dynamic nature and inter-dependent aspects of business;

3.

To develop an interest in the theory and practice of business, trade and industry;

4.

To familiarize students with theoretical foundations of organizing, managing and handling Operations of a business firm;

5.

To help students appreciate the economic and social significance of business activity and the social cost and benefits arising there from;

6.

To acquaint students with the practice of managing the operations and resources of business;

7.

To prepare students to function more effectively and responsibly as consumers, employers, employees and citizens;

8.

To help students in making the transition from school to the world of work including Self-employment;

9.

To develop in students a business attitude and skills to be precise and articulate.

The objectives of evaluation in Business Studies should test whether the above objectives have been realized or not. Thus some of these objectives of evaluation in business studies based on the objectives of studying this subject can be: 1.

To measure the extent to which the pupil has gained basic knowledge of the subject.

2.

To judge the applied skills of the student.

3.

Whether the pupil can take a right decision in practical life as a citizen,

professional and as a member of progressive society. Evaluation should be seen as a process to improve learning rather than as the end of it. Therefore first of all the method of curriculum transaction in Business Studies should consciously focus on realizing the objectives of the same and then only the question of evaluation whether these objectives have been realized or not can be measured by evaluation. Then also the evaluation should follow the principles of sound evaluation like objectivity etc. We should also keep in mind the Bloom’s Taxonomy of learning objectives namely (1) Cognitive Domain: - pertaining to intellectual abilities and skills or HEAD (2) Affective Domain: - Pertaining to mind i.e. feeling, liking etc. (3) Psychomotor Domain: - Pertaining to motor skills. In our educational evaluation we test the cognitive domain. Bloom and others have divided the cognitive domain as under in the hierarchical order of complexity:1.

Knowledge: - It signifies simple recall or recognition of previously learnt material.

2.

Understanding: - Ability to give meaning to the learnt concept.

3.

Application:- Ability to find solution to the problem

4.

Analysis: Comprehending the learned concept in terms of its constituent units.

5.

Synthesis:- It involves assimilation newly learned concept with already learned concepts to raise the level of understanding which leads to seek a solution for a given problem

6.

Evaluation: - It is the highest level of intellectual change that takes place in cognitive domain which includes all the above five levels besides helping in making value judgments.

Thus we as teachers can set questions in all types of evaluation based on the above before this we should also be familiar with qualities of a good question. Qualities of a Good Question Following are the qualities of a good question which a teacher should keep in mind while setting it:1.

Objective Based: - A question should be based on only one pre- determined objective that should it seeks to test. It should be framed in such a manner that this objective is effectively tested.

2.

Instructions: - It should specify the instructions to be followed by the student in a structured situation. Appropriate directional words should be used.

3.

Scope: The question should indicate the limit of the scope of the answer (length of the answer) in light of the marks and time allotted to it.

4.

Content: - The question should test the same area of content which is intended to be tested.

5.

Form of the question: - The form of the question depends on the objective and content area to be tested. Some forms are better than the others for testing certain abilities.

6.

Language: A good question should be framed in clear, precise and unambiguous language, well within the comprehension of the students.

7.

Difficulty level: - A question should be framed keeping in mind the level of the students for whom it is meant. The difficulty level depends upon the ability, content area to be tested and the time available to answer it. All the difficulty levels easy, average and difficult should be covered in appropriate proportions.

8.

Discriminating Power: - A good question should be able to discriminate between the bright and poor students.

9.

Delimited scope of the answer: - The language of the question should be specific and precise so that the scope of the expected answer is clearly delimited or defined.

10. Value Points: - The questions should be so framed that value points can be allotted to the expected answer to each p art of it. Different Forms of Questions Broadly the questions can be of two types depending upon the response of the pupil. These can be:1.

Supply Type of Questions: - In this type of question the pupil has to supply the appropriate answer. The answer may vary from one word to several paragraphs. Such questions are also called ‘Free response’ Questions. They may be further divided into :(a) Long answer question. (b) Short answer question. (c) Very short answer question. (d) Fill in the blanks.

2.

SELECTION TYPE OF QUESTIONS: - In these types of questions the student

is expected to give the answer by selecting it from among the choices provided. These can be further divided into:(a) True false type. (b) Fill in the blanks type. (c) Matching type. (d) Multiple choice types. In business studies some questions based on case studies, box items and cartoons can also be framed to test the applied skills of the pupils. In this article only Long answer, Short answer, Very short Answer and Multiple choice questions will be discussed. Long Answer Questions In this type of question the objective of the teacher is to check wording, length and organization of ideas of the student. In the present scheme of examination the questions carrying 5 and 6 marks are essay type of questions in business studies examination. The length of the expected answer is from 150 to 200 words. It can be of all the four type knowledge, Understanding, Application and skill. The following examples from the unit ‘Financial Markets’ will illustrate them:1.

Write any six functions of stock exchange. (Knowledge Type)

2.

Write any six points of distinction between money market and capital market. (Understanding Type)

3.

A company is faltering towards payment of interest to its debenture holders. Also some directors of the company seem to take advantage of their position to manipulate share prices. What remedies are available to aggrieved investors against the company? (Application Type)

4.

An auto company wants to raise an amount of Rs 5000 crores for long term capital requirement s and Rs 2000 crores for wo rking capital requirements. This amount is required to finance its expansion programme to introduce new small car models based on new low emission fuel efficient technology. The demand for these models is rising in India as well as abroad. What steps should the company take to raise this amount? (Skill Type)

It should be appreciated that the case based problems can also fall within the preview of essay type questions. The abilities that are checked in essay type questions can be:a.

Whether the student is able to select facts from the acquired body of

knowledge. b.

Identify and establish relationship between various aspects of knowledge.

c.

To organize, analyze, interpret facts and other types of information to draw inferences.

d.

To weigh the proof with respect to implications of the gathered information.

e.

To adopt original approach to solve a given problem.

f.

To defend one’s point of view through facts, data and suitable arguments.

g.

To critically examine the degree of accuracy, adequacy and relevance of the available information in a given situation.

h.

To demonstrate internalized attitude towards problems and issues.

i.

To appreciate a problem at both macro and micro level.

j.

To conceive, design and suggest new and innovative approaches for tackling a given problem.

Some of the advantages of essay type questions are:1.

There is less chance of guessing since a student is expected to produce his own answer rather than recognizing a correct response.

2.

It measures higher mental processes like ability to think, integrate, summarize, apply and interpret, organize knowledge, express ideas clearly, consciously, and effectively because, it tests the ability to organize information and to communicate that information effectively and efficiently.

3.

It is easier to construct as compared to objective type test.

4.

It requires more useful preparation on the part of the student because students have to do more thorough and thoughtful study and concentrate on the important larger aspects, relationships, trends and organization. This is contrary to objective type tests where students have to learn specific and isolated bits of information.

However the essay type questions suffer from the following limitations:a.

The most serious difficulty in essay type questions is the subjectivity in scoring. Sometimes different teachers give different scores to the same answer. Sometimes other factors like handwriting, expression and spelling play a more important part in evaluation of such types of questions. However the current trend has somehow removed this limitation since in business studies the question asked expect a very definitive answer.

b.

Judging the appropriateness becomes difficult and time consuming if the answer is not in points and in long paragraphs.

c.

Sometimes the students who do not know the answer teacher by giving inexact arguments.

try to bluff the

d.

Important facts are not covered as the questions are of nature that covers broad areas of the course content.

Normally essay type questions start with words such as Discuss, Explain, Evaluate, Compare, Contrast, Describe etc. Unless one of the objectives is to measure verbal fluency, or quality of handwriting, these factors should not be allowed to influence the scorer’s judgment. The essay type questions can be of two forms 1.

Question form: For example,’ What is ‘Marketing Mix’? How does it help the company in achieving its marketing objectives?’

2.

Statement form: - For example, ‘Distinguish between marketing and selling on any 6 basis.’

Short Answer Questions The essay type questions suffer from lack objectivity and reliability while the objective type questions cannot be used for testing certain aspects of growth like ability to organize, synthesize, ability of expression etc. Short answer questions are a good via media between the two extremes. They have the advantages of both the objective type and essay type questions without the disadvantages of both these forms if understood and framed properly. It requires specific answer and has the following characteristics as far as business studies are concerned:a.

It has to be answered in 60 to 80 words.

b.

The answer may be in 6-8 lines.

c.

The weight age is 3-4 marks.

d.

It can be answered in 3 to 5 minutes.

The advantages of a short answer question are:1.

It can be used for both internal and external examination.

2.

It can be used to test almost all objectives of teaching.

3.

It helps students to develop the ability of organizing and selecting relevant facts.

4.

They can be evaluated more objectively than essay type questions and thereby ensure reliability.

5.

These questions can cover more syllabus as there number is more than essay type questions. This improves the validity of the question paper also.

For constructing good short answer questions the following precautions may be observed:1.

Determine the ability to be tested and frame the question based on it. Generally, questions of understanding are best suited to short answer questions. Compare, Classify, Explain briefly etc are the directional words used in framing such questions. Ability to express precisely can also be tested.

2.

Do not write short answer question like short notes in a global structure. The question should be pin pointed with a specific task.

A short answer question should be framed such that it should have a definite answer. In business studies sample short answer questions can be:1.

Explain briefly any three limitations of planning. (knowledge type)

2.

Give any three differences between delegation and decentralization. (understanding type)

3.

Identity the principles of management as given by Henri Fayol which are being violated in the following cases:a. When a subordinate receives orders from 2 superiors. b. When a manager favors a subordinate who happens to be his relative. c. When the working of two divisions of a company overlap. d. c

When a subordinate habitually contacts higher authorities in the o m p a n y by passing his/her immediate superior.

Also give reason for your answer. (Application Type) 4.

You are a management consultant retained by a newly opened garment manufacturing company to design a suitable organizational structure. It wants to open three divisions namely :a. Ladies readymade garment division b. Gents readymade garment division c. Children readymade garment division. Prepare a model organization chart for this company. You are free to make

suitable assumptions. (Skill Type) Very Short Answer Type Questions In business studies one mark questions are very short answer type questions. They are to be answered in one word or one sentence. They can be marked quite objectively. More content can be tested through these questions and more reliability and validity can be ensured by this item. Very short answer questions have various advantages. They test mainly factual information, which is the foundation of all reliable knowledge. They are reasonably easy to write. The scoring is not burdensome. These items are very less affected by guessing than true-false or multiple choice question. The very short answer type questions have some limitations also. They can test very l i mi ted co nte n t po i n ts. Bl i n d gu e ssi ng i s rathe r a r are phenomenon in this form of question. Some model very short questions used in business studies are as under:1.

Give any one characteristic of management.

(knowledge type)

2.

Give any one difference between ‘unity of command’ and ‘unity of direction’. (understanding type)

3.

When a company is organized on the basis of products which type organizational structure is there? (Application Type) It is rare to frame skill type questions in very short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions In these types of questions a stem is provided followed by 4 or 5 choices of possible answers. The student has to select one of the answers and mark it on the question booklet or a separate preferable OMR sheet. These types of questions are very popular in various admission tests like CA, ICWA, CS, ICWAI, Law and Management etc. These help in testing pupil achievement for a wide range of instructional objectives. These questions have an advantage that they can be used and evaluated in a short duration. Some of the test situations to which this type of item is especially adopted are recognition, definition, differences and similarities, cause and effect, generalizations and evaluation. There are two parts of this question the stem and the answers. The stem of the question should be specific and not too long. The suggested answers should be related to the stem of the question. They should be fairly close so that guess work is avoided. Also some answers like,’None of the above’ and ‘All of the above’ should be avoided.

Some model questions from business studies can be:1.

Which of the following is not a function of management:a. Planning b. Coordination c. Controlling d. Organizing Type)

2.

(knowledge

Delegation is the process followed to share tasks whereas Decentralization is the result of the policy decision of the top management. This point of distinction between decentralization and delegation is based on which of the following:a. Nature b. Purpose c. Scope d. Status Type)

3.

(Understanding

A consumer has a grievance against a company for deficiency of service amounting to a financial loss of Rs 25 lakhs. Where can he/she apply to get redressed economically? a. District Forum b. State Commission c. National Commission d. Supreme court of India

(Application Type)

Tentative Suggested Solutions to Case Problems in Business Studies Notes 1.

These are only suggested tentative solutions and they can be improved upon and molded according to the level of the students. The answers to these may also vary from student to student as they are expected to exercise their imagination and apply the concepts learned from the book. Therefore there can be many alternate solutions without any one best solution.

2.

All the material in these solutions need not be from the book since these

are meant to develop attributes of creative problem solving in the students who may rely on their environment and other sources of knowledge like newspapers, magazines, business channels and personal experiences . 3.

Application oriented questions based on them or themes thereof adjusted to the level of the students can be asked after due training and information to all concerned i.e. teachers as well as pupils.

UNIT-1- NATURE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF MANAGEMENT Case Problem A company wants to modify its existing product in the market due to decreasing sales. You can imagine any product about which you are familiar. What decisions/steps should each level of management take to give effect to this decision? Suggested Tentative Solution Decisions / Steps at the Top Management Level (Examples) 1.

Deciding the exact modification of the existing product in light of the business environment.

2.

Outlining the targets of all the departments to implement the above modification. Devising Plans and strategies thereof.

3.

Coordination (Integration) of the targets, Plans and strategies specified in step 2. The Departmental / Functional heads may also be consulted to establish coordination.

Decisions/ Steps at the Middle Management Level (Examples) 1.

Implementing the plans and strategies of the top management to carry out the modification in the Product.

2.

Ensuring the availability of requisite resources & Personnel to carry out the plans.

3.

Assigning duties and responsibilities to the personnel.

4.

Motivating people to achieve the desired results.

5.

C o o p e r a te w i t h o th e r de p a rt m e n ts f o r s m o o t h fu n c t i o n i ng o f t h e organization.

Decisions/Steps at the Supervisory or Operational Management Level (examples)

1.

Overseeing the efforts of the workforce.

2.

Minimizing the wastage of material and time.

3.

Maintaining Safety standards.

4.

Attaining quality/ quantity parameters.

5.

Motivating the workforce.

Case Problem A firm plans in advance and has a sound organisation structure with efficient supervisory staff and control system. On several occasion it finds that plans are not being adhered to. It leads to confusion and duplication of work. Advise remedy. Suggested Tentative Solution There seems to be a lack of general coordination between the various departments of the company. Individually every department seems to be efficient but collectively integration of efforts is lacking at times. With the result plan does not seems to be adhered to. The results achieved do not seem to be according to plans. The company can take some of the following steps:1.

Plans and control systems should be coordinated and plans revised in light of the actual results achieved.

2.

Implementation of plans and monitoring the results should be strengthened.

3.

All the steps required establishing general coordination like communication of company goals, filling gaps in plans of action and integration of efforts should be undertaken.

4.

Communication systems should be strengthened.

5.

Appropriate motivation strategies should be used.

UNIT- 2; - PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT Case Problem -1 ‘F’ limited was engaged in the business of food processing and selling its products under a popular brand. Lately the business was expanding due to good quality and reasonable prices. Also with more people working the market for processed food was increasing. New players were also coming to cash in on the new trend. In order to keep its market share in the short run the company directed its existing workforce to work overtime.

But this resulted in many problems. Due to increased pressure of work the efficiency of the workers declined. Sometimes the subordinates had to work for more than one superior resulting in declining effeciency. The divisions that were previously working on one product were also made to work on two or more products. This resulted in a lot of overlapping and wasteage. The workers were becoming undisciplined. The spirit of teamwork, which had characterised the company, previously was beginning to wane. Workers were feeling cheated and initiative was declining. The quality of the products was beginning to decline and market share was on the verge of decrease. Actually the company had implemented changes without creating the required infrastructure. Questions 1.

Identify the Principles of Management (out of 14 given by Henry Fayol) that were being violated by the company.

2.

Explain these pronciples in brief.

3.

What steps should the company management take in relation to the above principles to restore the company to its past glore?

Suggested Tentative Solution 1.

Identify the Principles of Management (Out of 14 given by Henry Fayol) that were being violated by the company.

Answer: The following principles were being violated by the company:a.

Unity of command

b.

Unity of direction

c.

Discipline

d.

Espirit-De-Corps

e.

Initiative

f.

Division of Work

g.

Remuneration of Personnel

2.

Explain these Principles in brief.

Answer:- The students can explain the Principles given above with suitable examples on their own or from the case problem. 3.

What steps should the company management take in relation to the above principles to restore the company to its past glory?

Answer:- The company can take the following steps :-

a.

The existing capacity of the company is not able to cope up with the increased workload in the short run. So the company must increase capital investments or outsource its production.

b.

It must ensure that one subordinate is responsible to only one superior to restore unity of command. This can be done by clearly defining authority responsibility relationships in the context of decision to expand production.

c.

One division should be made to work only on one product to restore correct division of work and unity of direction. In case new capital investments are made then new divisions should be established on the same principles.

d.

Step ‘c’ will reduce overlapping and wastage. The job of each worker should be redefined in view of increased production. Workers should be motivated with appropriate financial and non financial incentives. This will restore discipline, initiative and espirit de corps.

e.

In view of step‘d’ above the workers should be given increased wages after due negotiations. This will ensure Fair remuneration to Personnel.

All the above steps should be taken in totality to restore the company to its past glory. Case Problem-2 (Related to Case Problem-1) The management of company ‘F’ Limited now realized its folly. In order to rectify the situation if appointed a management consultant ‘M’ consultants to recommend a restructure plan to bring the company back on the rails. ‘M’ consultants undertook a study of the production process at the plant of the company ‘F’ limited and recominended the following changes— 1.

The company should introduce scientific mangement with regard to production.

2.

Production Planning including routing, scheduling dispatching and feedback should be implemented.

3.

In order to separate planning from operational management ‘Functional foremanship’ should be introduced.

4.

‘Work study’ should be undertaken to optimise the use of resources.

5.

‘Standardisation’ of all activities should be implemente to increase efficiency and accountability.

6.

To mo ti vate the wo rkers ‘D ifferenti a l Pi ece Rate System’ sho l d be implemented.

7.

The above changes should be introduced apart from the steps recommended in case problem-1 (as an answer to question no. 3 of that case problem). It was expected that the changes will bring about a radical transformation

in the working of the company and it will regain its pristine glory. Questions 1. 2.

Do you think that introduction of scientific management as recommended by M consultants will result in intended outcome? W hat precautions should the company undertake to implement the changes? Give your anser with regard to each technique separately as enunciated in points 1 though 6 in the case problem.

It was expected that the changes will bring about a radical transformation in the working of the company and it will regain its pristine glory. (Page 70-71 of the book). Suggested Tentative Solution 1.

Do you think that introduction of scientific management as recommended by M consultants will result in intended outcome? Answer: I think that introduction of scientific management humanely after due consultations with all stakeholders and obtaining their motivated willingness will result in improvement of company’s fortunes. However all the changes should not neglect the human factor. The concept of lean manufacturing which is in use now is an offshoot of Scientific Management. So the form of scientific management introduced should be the latest including lean manufacturing, Just in time manufacturing, Kanban, Kaizen and Six Sigma etc.

2.

W hat precautions should the company undertake to implement the changes? Give your answer with regard to each technique separately as enunciated in points 1 through 6 in the case problem.

Answer: In general as pointed out in answer 1 the company should introduce the latest brand of scientific management with human factor in mind and obtaining their motivated willingness. Otherwise the changes if any will fail to bear fruit. Point wise precautions are as under:1.

The scientific management introduced should be, as pointed out above, the latest version which includes lean manufacturing and other techniques. Motivated willingness must be obtained of all stake holders.

2.

Production planning including routing, scheduling, dispatching and feedback should be implemented keeping in mind the human factor and not neglecting it. This will result in better compliance of decisions taken.

3.

Functional foremanship will be good but since it neglects unity of command it might not result in tangible benefit to the company. Also in today’s circumstances it is not practical to ask a worker to follow so many bosses.

4.

Work study is good but it reduces a worker to a machine. As such it neglects behavioural aspect which is not practical any more.

5.

Standardization should be implemented in the right earnest. It will improve productivity and also reduce quality variations. But right training and willingness of workers must be obtained.

6.

‘Differential Piece Rate System’ if introduced should be done with extreme caution. It must not result in unhealthy competition. However alternatives like monetary and non-monetary incentives can be introduced in place of ‘Differential Piece Wage System’.

UNIT -3- BUSINESS ENVIORNMENT Case Problem Lately many companies have planned significant investments in organized retailing in India. Several factors have prompted their decisions in this regard. Customer income is rising. People have developed a taste for better quality products even though they may have to pay more. The aspiration levels have increased. The government has also liberalised its economic policies in this regard and permitted even cent percent foreign direct investment in some sectors of retailing. Questions 1.

Identify changes in business environment under different heads–economic, social, technological, political and legal that have facilitated the companies’ decisions to plan significant investments in organised retailing.

2.

What has been the impact of these changes with regard to globalisation and privatisation?

Suggested Tentative Solution 1.

Identify the changes in business environment under different headseconomic, social, technological, political and legal that has facilitated the company’s decisions to plan significant investments in organized retailing.

Answer: Economic Changes: a.

Increase in disposable incomes of the people.

b.

Liberalization of Economic Policies.

c.

Increase in demand for branded products.

d.

Easy availability of bank loans for consumer products at reasonable and affordable rates of interest.

e.

Increased globalization and integration of world economies.

f.

Rise in savings and investment rates.

Social Changes: a.

Changes in lifestyle due to increased participation of people in earning activities including women.

b.

Increased aspiration levels due to increase in incomes.

c.

Changes in consumption habits.

d.

Increase in nuclear families.

e.

Increased awareness about good lifestyle due to internet and globalization.

Technological Changes a.

Advances in food processing and packaging technologies.

b.

Use of internet and advances in ICT (Information and communication technologies)

c.

Advances in supply chain management.

d.

Use of more flexible and customized manufacturing processes.

e.

Synergy among suppliers, producers, transporters, other service providers and retailers etc. due to technological advances and mutually beneficial interests.

Political Changes a.

Acceptance of organized retailing by a decisive number of political parties.

b.

Favorable attitude of Indian corporate sector towards competition from foreign companies in organized retailing.

c.

Better perception of citizens in general towards acceptance of organized retailing.

Legal Changes a.

Abolition of license, permit and quotas.

b.

Liberalization of foreign investment laws with regard to organized retailing.

c.

Changes in existing economic legislations permitting investment in organized retailing.

2.

What has been the impact of these changes with regard to globalization and privatization?

Answer:- The impact of these changes with regard to globalization and privatization can be pointed out as under:a.

Increasing Competition: We find that many organized retail companies have started their operations in many formats like Reliance fresh, Spencer’s, Big apple and Subhiksha etc.

b.

More demanding customers: Due to well informed customers the organized retail companies have to give them variety of quality products and services at affordable prices.

c.

Readily changing technological environment;- In case of organized retailing technological changes have improved supply chain management, use of information technology in inventory management and billing etc. This has enabled large scale economies of scale resulting in better delivery of services to customers and increasing margins for organized retail companies.

d.

Necessity for change: Market forces are compelling the organized retail companies to modernize, innovate and modify their services and product offerings to provide value for money to customers. Thus we find various formats of these outlets by the same company.

e.

Need for developing human resources: The new market conditions require people with higher competence and greater commitment. Hence the companies are training even fresh graduates. New employment opportunities have arisen for young people.

f.

Market Orientation: Organized retailers have to study market first before taking any decision with regard to any change. So the buyer has become the central point of corporate planning.

UNIT-4 - PLANNING Case Problem

(Page 111 of the book)

An auto company C Ltd. is facing a problem of declining market share due to increased competition from other new and existing players in the market. Its competitors are introducing lower priced models for mass consumers who are price sensitive. For quality conscious consumers, the company is introducing new models with added features and new technological advancements.

Questions 1.

Prepare a model business plan for c Ltd. to meet the existing challenge. You need not be very specific about quantitative parameters. You may specify which type of plan you are preparing.

2.

Identify the limitations of such plans.

3.

How will you seek to remove these limitations?

Suggested Tentative Solution 1.

1.

Prepare a model business plan for C Ltd. to meet the existing challenge. You need not be very specific about quantitative parameters. You may specify which type of plan you are preparing. Answer: Model Business Plan For ‘C’ Limited

Objectives a)

To arrest the declining market share in the short term and to gradually increase it to a reasonable level in medium to long term. b) To understand and master the new auto technology. c) To incorporate the above technology in new product offerings. d) To increase the goodwill of the company and make it a household brand. e) To keep the new products affordable.

Strategies a)

To introduce the required number of variants of the same model of cars/ autos based on different features such as air conditioning, power windows and power steering etc. Appropriate price differentials should also be in place.

b)

The above variants should cater to various segments of buyers.

c)

Market segmentation according to some classification like economy; middle class and Premium buyers etc.

d)

Designing a suitable marketing strategy for each market segment.

e)

Varying the strategies according to changes in the business environment.

f)

Designing suitable strategies for different departments like finance, production, marketing, R& D and HRD to realise the objectives of the company and to establish coordination among them.

Policies a)

Recruitment Policy for attracting and retaining competent people for the company.

b)

Credit Policy for large customers/ dealers to keep them interested in company’s products.

c)

Buying Policy to minimize cost of inputs along with best quality of raw material to increase profitability.

d)

Co rpo rate go vernance po li cy fo r ensu ri ng transparent and e thical managerial decisions and actions.

e)

Dividend Policy to keep the stakeholders happy and keep the stock price of the company at a reasonably good/ high level.

Procedures a)

Procedure for requisition of raw material, which aims at reducing wastage of resources.

b)

Recruitment Procedure detailing steps to be followed therein.

c)

Procedure of payment to creditors to ensure getting best credit period and at the most economical price.

d)

Procedure for approval of decisions taken at various levels of management and to ensure their timely execution.

e)

Procedure for timely collection of receivables.

Methods 1.

Methods of training to be followed to ensure maximum benefits at every level of personnel.

2.

Method of granting discount to a large buyer.

Rules 1.

Rules of recruitment of People.

2.

Conveyance rules for staff.

Programmes 1.

Marketing programme according to busy /lean sale period.

Budgets 1.

Sales Budget.

2.

Marketing Budget,

3.

Production Budget.

4.

Master Budget.\

Question 2.

Identify the limitations of such plans.

Answer: Limitations Of Plans 1.

It might lead to rigidity.

2.

When the environment is changing rapidly then even the best plans might fail.

3.

Creativity of the staff might be stifled when all plans are dictated from the top. This results in the loss of initiative.

4.

Making such elaborate plans as pointed out in answer 1 might be costly.

5.

It is also time consuming to plan in detail.

6.

Success is not guaranteed.

Question 3: How will you seek to remove these limitations? Answer: Measures to Remove these Limitations 1.

Adequate flexibility should be built in the plans.

2.

Related to this is that business environment should be studied in advance and provisions to deal with it be made. For example in the case of company ‘C’ any new feature in the competitors vehicle offerings should be anticipated in advance.

3.

Planning should involve many people to make them accountable and not dictated from the above. This will result in their taking initiative.

4.

Some amount of brevity and contingency approach will help in reducing time and cost. For example Maruti has offered new ‘Zen Estilow ‘ on the same platform as WAGON- R to prevent out right competition between its own products and thus leading to economy.

5.

Now a days modern planning and execution have reduced the time lag between the two. This saves time and minimises chances of failure.

6.

Success is not always guaranteed in all plans. It might be that owing to competition the buyers might not like all new offerings of company ‘C’. In such situations the company should learn from experiences and revise the plans accordingly.

Case Problem-2 A company manufacturing sewing machines set up in 1945 by the British promoters follows formal organisation culture in totality. It is facing lot of problems in delays in decision-making. as the result is is not able to adapt to changing business environment. The work force is also not motivated since they cannot vent their grievances except through formal channels, which involve red tape. Employee turnover is high. Its market share is also declining due to changed circumstances and business environment.

Questions You are to advise the company with regard to change it should bring about in its organizational structure to overcome the problems faced by it. Give reasons in terms of benefits it will derive from the changes suggested by you. In which sectors can the company diversify keeping in mind the declining market for the product the company is manufacturing? Suggested Tentative Solution Answer: Change which the Company Should Bring About in its Organisational Structure The company should encourage increased informal interaction within the employees. It can provide opportunities for socialization like organizing picnics and get together. The management should also introduce employee suggestion systems so that good suggestions can be implemented and rewarded. The communication channels should be open so that a sense of belongingness is created in the company. The company might introduce some extent of decentralization also to bring about quick decision making, However due training to the concerned employees is necessary for this. Benefits the Company will Derive from these Changes The company may derive some/more of the following benefits:a.

Introduction of informal interaction between employees will help in fulfilling the social needs of the employees since it allows them to meet the likeminded people. It will enhance their job satisfaction since will give them a sense of belongingness in the organization.

b.

Quick decision making will also take place since prescribed lines of communication will not be followed and faster spread of information will give quick feedback.

c.

Introduction of employee suggestion systems will result in increased motivation for those employees who make good suggestions. This and other steps might also reduce employee turnover. Introduction of decentralization will also help in this.

d.

All the above steps should contribute towards fulfillment of organizational objectives by compensating for inadequacies in the formal organization. For example employees reactions towards plans and policies can be tested through the informal network.

Sectors in which the Company can Diversify The company may diversify into sectors like textile machinery for which there is a lot of scope in India. Such machines may include automatic sewing machines; knitting, embroidery, quilting, raising, compacting and fusing machines; Fabric cutters and needle detectors etc. Case Problem- 3(page 145 of the Book) A company X is manufacturing cosmetics, which has enjoyed a pre-eminent position in busines, has grown in size. Its business was very good till 1991. But after that, new liberalised environment has seen entry of many MNC’s in the sector. With the result the market share of x limited has declined. The company had followed a very centralised business model with Directors and divisional beads making even minor decisions. Before 1991 this business model had served the company very well as consumers had no chice. But now the company is under pressure to reform. Questions What organization structure changes should the company bring about in order to regain its market share? How will the changes suggested by you help the firm? Keep in mind that the sector in which the company is FMCG. Answer: Recommended Organisation Structure Changes The company is engaged in manufacture and marketing of cosmetics which are defined as those products that are used to enhance and protect the appearance and odour of the human body. Cosmetics include skin-care creams, lotions, powders, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail and toenail polishes, eye and facial makeup, permanent waves, colored contact lenses, hair colors, hair sprays and gels, deodorants, baby products, bath oils, bubble baths, bath salts, butters and many other types of products. The company has been following a very centralized business model. It means that decisions are taken by top or middle management with very little delegation and decentralized decision making. As there has been change in the business environment 1991 it has led to;a.

Increased competition

b.

Constant change in

market dynamics and consumer preferences

In order to respond to these and other changes the following changes are recommended:-

(i)

The company should increase DELEGATION and DECENTRALISATION of authority to the largest extent possible.

(ii) Since it is dealing in FMCG (Fast moving consumer goods sector) in which consumption is large and customer preferences are dynamic the lower level staff should be given more powers to clinch deals like offering customers more discounts on bulk orders etc. (iii) There should be a good communication system from lower level to the top level to take quick strategic decisions based on changing situations. (iv) The good suggestions wherever they come should be acted upon if beneficial to the company and suitably rewarded. (v) Maximum participation in decision making should be ensured to motivate staff and achieve good results for the company. Expected Benefits that the Company will Derive from Changes a.

Developing initiative among the subordinates: The subordinates who are given more powers are also accountable for their actions. Thus it forces them to develop innovative solutions to problems they face. In the case of the cosmetics company the subordinates might increase sales and find about new facts about preferences of the customers and take decisions to fulfill them.

b.

Development of managerial talent for the future: The company can find out people with exceptional talent from the way the subordinates handle situations. These people can then be given formal training and promoted to higher positions. Also any shortcomings of the existing subordinates can be identified and it can be removed through counseling and appropriate training and development programmes. Thus it helps in development of managerial talent for the future. In the case of Cosmetics Company future managers play a very important role in increasing market share etc.

c.

Quick decision making: In a decentralized organization since most decisions are taken nearest to the point of action which do not require approval of the top level so quick decisions are taken. Also there is no distortion of information. In the case of cosmetics company decisions about change in customer preferences and moves by competitors can help the company to derive strategic advantages.

d.

Relief to the top management: Decentralized decision making diminishes the amount of direct supervision on the activities of the subordinates. But supervision is in other forms such as return on investment etc. It leaves more time to top management to concentrate on other issues of strategic importance (Policy issues) rather than operational issues. In the case of cosmetics company since the customer preferences are changing and new

products are introduced fast the top management can concentrate on the same with full attention. e.

F a c i l i t a t i n g g r o w t h : D ec e n t ra l i z at i o n a f f o r ds m o re a u to n o m y t o departments and to lower level staff. This results in better functioning and also some competition between them. Due to this some growth takes place which is good for the company. In the case of Cosmetics Company since there are many departments territory wise so it would be beneficial for the company. In fact the top management can motivate them to perform better by instilling appropriate rewards for good performance like on the basis of increasing sales etc.

f.

Better Control : Since each department or individual can be held accountable for his/her results so it facilitates better control. In case of a cosmetic company the sales achieved by each sales person etc is one such example. This facilitates better management.

UNIT-6- STAFFING Case Problem-1 A company X limited is setting up a new plant in India for manufacturing auto components. India is a highly competitive and cost effective production base in this sector. Many reputed car manufacturers source their auto components from here. X limited is planning to capture about 40% of the market share in India and also export to the tune of at least $5 million in about 2 years of its planned operations. To achieve these targets it requires a highly trained and motivated work force. You have been retained by the company to advise it in this matter. While giving answers keep in mind the sector the company is operating. Questions 1.

Outline the process of staffing the company should follow.

2.

Which sources of recruitment the company should rely upon. Give reasons for your recommendation.

3.

Outline the process of selection the company should follow with reasons.

4.

Which methods of training and development should be company initiate? Explain giving reasons.

Suggested Tentative Solution Question-1: Outline the process of staffing that the company should follow. Answer: The company should follow the following staffing process: A) Estimating Manpower Requirements The company is about to set up a new plant in India, which is a very competitive place to produce auto components. At the same time it is very capital intensive and the quality of the product has to be very competitive. So the company should estimate its manpower requirements well in advance and with as much precision as possible to minimise the chances of any loss of profitability and market share. B) Recruitment Recruitment is a positive process, which aims to attract the best talent to apply for jobs in the organisation. In order to give a wide choice and to attain the huge targets that the company has set up for itself, it must have a sound recruitment policy. C) Selection The process of selection should be very rigorous to ensure that only the best talent is selected from among the applicants who have applied for the jobs in the company. D) Placement And Orientation Introducing the employees to new environment and making them comfortable is a primary job of the concerned people in the company. This is the key to get good performance and keeping the employee interested to remain in the company. In the present case to attain 40% market share and exports to the tune of $ 5 million the company will have to be very successful in this work. E) Training And Development While training is concerned with lower level of management, development is related to higher and middle level management. Training is related to physical skills; development is related to mental skills. In both the areas the company has to excel to ensure that it derives maximum benefit from the manpower selected. Question- 2: Which sources of recruitment the company should rely upon. Give reasons for your recommendation. Answer: For the lower level of employees like labourers and foreman the company can rely on the following sources: -

a)

Casual Callers: These are those persons who send their enquire on coming to know about the availability of employment in the company by actually being present there. They are mostly casual labourers and also sometimes persons who have studied diploma courses at industrial training institutes etc qualifying for entry level foreman jobs. Since they are maximum in number the company should exercise some caution while selecting them.

b)

Labour Contractors: In order to find large number of labourers especially at short notice the company can rely on labour contractors. This situation can arise when the company suddenly receives a large order for supplying auto ancillaries.

For higher-level employees the company may rely on the following sources of recruitment: a)

Advertisement: Advertisements are read by people who wish to apply for jobs in the company at higher and middle level of management; it brings wide choice and also right people.

b)

Campus Recruitment: This is a very popular method of recruitment. To recruit engineers and other qualified personnel the company can rely of institutes like IIT. In this way the company should be able to find competent people to achieve its targets.

c)

Manpower agencies: These agencies help the companies by providing a whole range of services. In this case the company need not have a very populated personnel department since it can rely on the experience of the agencies.

d)

Internet: Internet is a great source to recruit competent people. Web sites like naukri. Com etc help potential applicants as well as companies.

d)

Employee recommendations: To retain the loyalty of the employees and also to save costs of recruitment the company can rely on other employee recommendations. In the present case any such step will help the company in increased profitability.

Question-3. Outline the process of selection the company should follow with reasons. Answer: The process of selection is valid for higher level and middle level managers. For lower level human resources the company can rely on a less elaborate procedure devoid of so many steps. Let me discuss the procedure to be followed for recruitment of educated middle level and higher-level people: a)

Preliminary Screening: This step will help the company in eliminating unqualified and less serious applicants in the first instance, saving cost and time.

b)

Selection Tests: The applicants who have been short listed on the basis of the first step can be administered tests to evaluate Intelligence, Aptitude, Personality, Trade and interests. These tests will help the company to further shortlist suitable applicants for the required positions.

c)

Employment Interview: It is an in depth conversation which seeks to further evaluate the suitability of the applicant for the job. It is also a platform where the job seeker can get information about the company from the interviewer. In the present case the company should carefully take interviews of the candidates since their actions will help the company to realise its objectives of 40% market share and exports of $ 40 million.

d)

Reference and background checks: The company also asks for names of some references. These are people with whom the candidate has already worked in the past. The company should check with them before proceeding to the next step to satisfy itself about the genuineness of the candidate’s claim. In the present case it is useful because it will help X limited to further verify reliability of the information provided by the candidate.

e)

Selection Decision: After the candidate has passed all the required parameters, which were evaluated, in the above stages he/ she can be selected. But the manager responsible for selection must ensure that all the decisions about selection is fair and in the interest of the company. This will help as in the present case selection of truly competent manpower.

f)

Medical Examination: Usually a medical examination is conducted to ensure that the candidate selected does not suffer from any physical or mental disability, which might hinder her/him from performing his/her duties in the organisation. In the present case this step will help X Limited to ensure selection of healthy manpower.

g)

Job Offer: After all the stages have been cleared the candidate is given a job offer. This includes all his job profile and compensation details. The employee should be given reasonable time to join and also resign from his previous job if any. In case of X limited the job offer must be competitive and match the industry norms so as to ensure adequate motivation for an employee to join the organisation.

h)

Contract of Employment: A contract of employment is signed between the company and selected candidate outlining the terms and conditions of employment. This document should be carefully prepared and read by the selected candidate to prevent future conflict. In case of Company X limited this is very essential since it has to concentrate on increasing its market share in a competitive market.

Question-4. Which methods of training and development should the company initiate? Explain giving reasons.

Answer: The company can use the following training methods: On The Job Methods 1.

Apprenticeship Programmes: Under these programmes the workers are placed with master workers to learn skills, which may be a bit advanced. In the present case the skill may involve fixing auto component with new designs.

2.

Coaching: This involves an experienced coach to be appointed for the employee to learn new skills. The programme for coaching is designed keeping in mind the requirements of the employee. In the present case the technology for new auto components is changing so fast that coaching becomes and essential part of the training process.

3.

Internship Training: It is a joint programme in which the educational institution and business cooperate to impart education cum training to the employee. In case of company X, it should be willing to give internship to some bright candidates, which might be absorbed in the company itself. This will earn a great loyalty and trained workforce will be available to the company a competitive cost.

4.

Job Rotation: It involves the employee learning many tasks on being shifted to different departments in the same organisation. It is a very economical method of training employee for multi tasking; Company X Limited must take full advantage of this method to keep personnel cost down.

Off the Job Methods Company X to attain its objectives can use the following off the job methods: 1.

Class Room Lectures/ Conferences: This method if used with audiovideo presentation can be very useful in conveying the desired message or skill to the employee. Company X can also derive this advantage.

2.

Films: The company to train workers in new skills can use the visual appeal of the films productively. It is said that a picture says a thousand words.

3.

Case Study: These are taken from the real life experiences of managers. So it can help managers develop real insight into problem solving, the same can also benefit Company X.

5.

Computer since auto CAD/CAM use of this

6.

Vestibule Training: This training is conducted in a room, which has similar situation as in the actual factory. The company X can use this

Modelling: This method is especially useful for company X technology is changing fast and computer is being used in to design and manufacture new components. Accordingly the method will benefit the company.

method to its advantage in that the worker will acquire skill without causing wastage. 7.

Programmed Instruction: This method is used to give learning in steps. It helps the trainee to master skills thoroughly. Accordingly the company X can use this method to its advantage.

Case Problem-2 A major insurance company handled all recruiting, screening and traning processes for data entry/customer service representatives. Their competitor was attracting most of the qualified, potential employees in their market. Recruiting was made even more difficult by the strong economy and the ‘Jobseeker’s market’. This resulted in the client having to choose from candidates who had the ‘soft’ skills needed for the job, but lacked the proper ‘hard’ skills and training. Questions 1.

As an HR Manager what problems do you see in the company?

2.

How do you think it can be resolved?

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: As an HR manager what problems do you see in the company? Answer: Soft skills are those that are related to qualities which help to do any job well. They include working in a team, friendliness, cooperation, innovation and ability to teach etc. Hard skills are job specific which help the individual in good performance. These include ability to understand and calculate premium for any policy, convincing buyer to buy the policy etc. As an HR manager I might face the following difficulties:a.

The company might be forced to take people lacking skills for data entry/ customer service.

b.

A lot of money might have to be spent on their training.

c.

Even after training it might be difficult to retain them through appropriate motivation else the company might have to offer salaries higher than the market determined levels to retain them.

d.

All these will increase costs of the company and it might be difficult for it to remain competitive in insurance business.

Question 2: How do you think it can be resolved? Answer: steps:-

The company or HR manager to be more specific can take following

1.

It should recruit young people like fresh graduates etc. who are promising with aptitude for data entry and customer service.

2.

They can be made to sign a suitable bond specifying the years of service they would be required to do for the company along with financial component to be recovered from them in case they leave earlier.

3.

Appropriate compensation package should be given to motivate them to achieve high targets like increased customer satisfaction and large amounts of data entry etc.

4.

This work can also be outsourced to a HRD consultant to be economical and ensure benefits of specialization.

Case Problem- 3 A public transport corporation has hired 1000 buses for the different routes for the passengers of metropolitan city. Most of the 3000 crewmen (drivers, conductors, helpers etc.) of these buses have been found to be wanting in satisfactorily dealing with public and daily commuters. They seem to be little interested in the job and the job seem to have lost all meaning to them. Questions 1.

As manager of the public transport company what measures do you suggest to improve the working of crewman in question?

2.

Is it possible to modify their behaviour by planning a suitable type of training? suggest one.

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: As manager of the public transport company what measures do you suggest to improve the working of crewman in question? Answer: As manager of the public transport company I would like to take the following measures:a.

I would like to talk to leaders of the staff i.e. drivers, conductors and helpers etc. to ascertain their views about their problems if any and put my concerns before them.

b.

In this meeting some problems of the staff may come out like inadequate wages or some shortcomings in working conditions etc.

c.

I would then call a meeting of my board of directors of the company and other senior managers to find a solution to some of the problems pointed out. We would seek to make the wages/salaries more attractive with performance linked incentives and also take some measures to improve working conditions like provision for more rest periods and improvement in physical facilities at bus depots for the staff.

d.

Some of the changes might require approval of the ministry of surface transport, Govt. of India which we will duly take.

e.

We would also like to undertake a suitable refresher course in public dealing for the staff for which we might like to take help of a management institute.

f.

In addition to the above for the long term we might also establish some permanent mechanism for mutual consultation with staff and also evolve some suggestion systems which will help us to constantly improve our services to commuters and motivate the staff to reach out and improve their working in all spheres.

Question 2: Is it possible to modify the behavior by planning a suitable type of training? Suggest one. Answer: Yes, it is possible to modify the behavior by planning suitable type of training. As pointed out in answer 1 the training can include one/more of the following methods:a.

The programme should essentially about public dealing and desirable behavior with the commuters.

b.

It should include off the Job methods like:(i) Class room discussions (ii) Films (iii) Some easily understandable case studies about practices in other countries/places/companies where transport services are good and behavior of staff is very polite and good. (iv) Some role plays can also be done where staff can be involved.

c.

As pointed out in Answer I help of a reputed management institute/ agency which specializes in conducting such short term programmes for working people should be appointed to conduct the training. Some presentations by the managers of the transport undertaking can also be included in the programme.

Case Problem- 4 Ms. Jayshree recently completed her Post Graduate Diplome in Human Resource Management. A few months from now a large steel manufacturing company appointed her as its human resource manager. As of now, the company employs 800 persons and has an expansion plan in hand which may require another 200 persons for various types of additional reuirements. Ms. Jayshree has been given complete charge of the company’s Human Resource Department.

Questions 1.

Point out, what functions is she supposed to perform?

2.

What problems do you foresee in her job?

3.

What steps is she going to take to perform her job efficiently?

4.

How significant is her role in the organisation?

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1. Point out what functions she is supposed to perform? Answer: She is supposed to perform the following functions:a.

Manpower Planning

b.

Recruitment

c.

Selection

d.

Training and Development

e.

Designing and implementing appropriate compensation systems.

f.

Designing and implementing appropriate financial and non-financial incentive systems.

g.

Performance evaluation /appraisal of people.

h.

Succession Planning.

i.

Implementation of changes in organization structure keeping in mind the requ irem en ts of th e co m pan y an d also en su rin g sm o oth ch an ge management.

j.

Motivating people to perform better.

Question 2: What problems do you foresee in her job? Answer: I foresee some of the following problems in her Job:a.

Since she has only recently completed her education she lacks experience to HRD department of a large manufacturing company. So she should have got appropriate training /experience in HRD function before being given such big responsibility.

b.

Some experienced people in her department might not like to obey her or extend their cooperation due to ego problems etc.

c.

She might face problems in implementing her policies due to the fact that they might be based only on bookish knowledge and lacking practical tilt.

d.

The tasks that she is likely to perform as pointed out in answer 1 are very enormous; As such she might face problems initially to do them efficiently

together and also coordinating with other departments for realization of corporate objectives. Question 3: What steps is she going to take to perform her job efficiently? Answer: She can take some of the following steps to perform her job efficiently:a.

She should take it as a big opportunity instead of a problem.

b.

She must analyse the problems she might face and try to find out appropriate solutions.

c.

She should try to win over the staff by her exemplary bahaviour and giving importance to some of their constructive suggestions.

d.

She can also consult some experienced HRD people in other organizations and examine their suggestions.

e.

If she tries to take everyone together in her functioning then she is likely to succeed very easily.

f.

She might like to attend some development programme to bridge the gap in her theoretical knowledge and actual practices.

Question 4: How significant is her role in the organization? Answer: The role of Ms. Jayshree is very significant due to the following reasons:a.

As the organization is run by its people so the appropriate recruitment, selection and training can make or mar the organization.

b.

Since Ms Jayshree is newly trained and lacks practical experience and has been assigned responsibility which is given to others after many years she has to take her task very seriously. No doubt she must be having exceptional capabilities as she has been given a senior position much too soon.

In light of the above she must help to realize the objectives of the organization and increase her stature. UNIT-7 DIRECTING Case Problem Y Limited, a bank functioning in India. It is planning to diversify into insurance business. Lately, the govornment of India has allowed the privvate sector to gain entry in the insurance business. Previously, it was the prerogative of LIC and GIC to do insurance business. But now with liberalisation of the economy and to make the field competitive other companies have been given licenses to

start insurance business under the regulation of ‘Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority.’ Y limited plans to recruit high quality employees and agents and exercise effective direction o capture a substantial part of life and non life insurance business. Questions 1.

Identify how the company can supervise its employees and agents effectively. What benefits will the company derive from effective supervision?

2.

What financial and non-financial incentives can the company use for employees and agents separately to motivate them. What benefits will the company get from them?

3.

How can the company ensure that higher order needs i.e., esteem and self-actualisation as specified by Abraham Maslow are met?

4.

Identify the qualities of leadership in this line of business that the company managers must possess to motivate employees and agents.

5.

Give a model of formal communication system that the company can follow. Identify the barriers in this model. How can they be removed?

6.

How can informal communication help to supplement formal commnication model given by you in answer to question 5?

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: Identify how the company can supervise its employees and agents effectively. What benefits will the company derive from effective supervision? Answer: The company can supervise its employees and agents in the following ways:a.

It must set standards for the employees and agents to deal with customers in terms of facts to be disclosed and time taken to process an insurance claim etc.

b.

Constant customer feedback should be taken and acted upon to keep agents and employees under check.

c.

Appropriate training should be imparted to employees to upgrade their skills.

d.

Financial and non financial incentives should be designed to motivate them to perform better.

e.

Suggestions given by employees and agents if appropriate should be implemented promptly.

Question 2: What financial and non financial incentives can the company use for employees and agents separately to motivate them. What benefits will the company get from them? Answer: Financial incentives for employees:a.

Pay and allowances

b.

Productivity linked wage incentives

c.

Bonus

d.

Profit sharing

e.

Co-Partnership/Stock options

f.

Retirement Benefits

g.

Perquisites.

Non financial incentives for employees:a.

Status

b.

Organisational Climate

c.

Career Advancement Opportunity

d.

Job Enrichment

e.

Employee Recognition Programmes

f.

Job Security

g.

Employee Participation

h.

Employee Empowerment.

Financial incentives for agents:a.

Stipend /minimum pocket allowance.

b.

Assured Commission on every policy sold

c.

Performance linked financial incentives like enhanced commission.

d.

Holiday trips to foreign and domestic destinations for outperforming agents.

e.

Easy vehicle loans on concessional terms

f.

Cheap home loans for self and family

g.

Promotion schemes

h.

Financial incentives for training more agents and increasing coverage of the business of the company.

i.

Some retirement benefits like pension beyond a certain age say 60 years to motivate people to become agents of the company.

j.

Bonus

Non Financial incentives for agents:a.

Status

b.

Career Advancement Opportunity

c.

Special training programmes

d.

Opportunities for enhancing professional qualifications like bearing cost of doing an MBA in Actuary Sciences from a reputed management institute,

e.

Job enrichment

f.

Agent recognition programmes.

Benefits Derived by the Company from the Above a.

Loyalty of employees and agents.

b.

Increased business due to enhanced motivation levels.

c.

Customer Satisfaction.

d.

Increased business and goodwill.

Question 3: How can the company ensure that higher order needs i.e. esteem and self actualization as specified by Abraham Maslow is met? Answer: The higher order needs of the employees and agents can be met through the following:a.

Status:- The company can enhance status of a high performing employee by changing his/her designation to a higher level like Senior Manager or Executive Agent in deserving cases.

b.

Job enrichment:- The job of an employee or an agent can be enriched by enhancing his/her responsibilities like mentoring peers and subordinates.

c.

Employee empowerment:- Enhancing powers of an employee like increasing his/her powers to recruit employees/agents, giving them training and developing them.

d.

Giving more facilities to undertake research in chosen area and giving autonomy to the employee/agent to implement the findings if found useful for the company.

Question 4: Identify the qualities of leadership in this line of business that the company managers must possess to motivate employees and agents. Answer: The company managers must possess some/all of the following qualities to motivate employees and agents:a.

Knowledge

b.

Integrity

c.

Initiative

d.

Communication Skills

e.

Motivation Skills

f.

Self- Confidence

g.

Decisiveness

h.

Social Skills

Question 5: Give a model of formal communication system that the company can follow. Identify the barriers in this model. How can they be removed? An sw er: The co mpany w ill have to follo w bo th verti cal and hori zontal communication models. Vertical communication will take place between superiors and subordinates e.g. between sales manager to sales supervisor to insurance agent etc. Horizontal communication takes place between different departments like between one territory manager with other territory manager etc. The actual selection of the network type from chain; wheel; circular; freeflow; or inverted V will depend upon the conditions in which the company is functioning. The co m pany can fac e so m e o f the fo l l o wi ng ba rri e rs t o ef fect i ve communication:I. Semantic Barriers a.

Badly expressed message.

b.

Symbols with different meanings.

c.

Faulty translations.

d.

Unclarified assumptions.

e.

Technical Jargon.

f.

Body language and gesture decoding

II. Psychological Barriers a.

Premature evaluation.

b.

Lack of attention.

c.

Loss by transmission and poor retention.

d.

Distrust.

III. Organisational Barriers a.

Organizational Policy.

b.

Rules and Regulations.

c.

Status

d.

Complexities in organizational structure.

e.

Organizational facilities.

IV. Personal Barriers a.

Fear of challenge to authority.

b.

Lack of confidence of superior in subordinates.

c.

Unwillingness to communicate.

d.

Lack of proper incentives.

Measures to Overcome the Barriers a.

Clarify the ideas before communication.

b.

Communicate according to the needs of the receiver.

c.

Consult others before communicating.

d.

Be aware of languages, tone and content of the message.

e.

Convey things of help and value to listener

f.

Ensure proper feedback.

g.

Communicate for the present as well as the future.

h.

Follow up communications.

i.

Being a good listener.

Question no. 6. How can informal communication help to supplement formal communication model given by you in answer to question no 5? Answer: The in formal communication can help to supplement the formal communication in the following manner:a.

It helps in spreading the information fast which might not be the case in formal communication system. This can be especially useful in case of an emergency when quick response is needed.

b.

It helps to know about the expected behavior of the subordinates and thus communication can be worded accordingly to elicit positive response.

UNIT-8 CONTROLLING Case Problem A company ‘M’ Limited is manufacturing mobile phones both for domestic Indian market as well as for export. It had enjoyed a substantial market share and also had a loyal customer following. But lately it has been experiencing problems because its targets have not been met with regard to sales and customer satisfaction. Also mobile market in India has grown tremendously and new players have come with better technology and pricing. This is causing problems for the company. It is planning to revamp its controlling system and take other steps necesary to rectify the problems it is facing. Questions 1.

Identify the benefits the company will from a good control system.

2.

How can the company relate its planning with control in this line of business to ensure that its plans are actually implemented and targets attained.

3.

Give the steps in the control process that the company should follow to remove the problems it is facing.

4.

What techniques of control can be company use? In all the answers keep in mind the sector of business the company is in.

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: Identify the benefits that the company will derive from a good control system. Answer: The company will derive the following benefits from a good controlling system:a.

Accomplishing organizational goals: In light of the new situation the mobile company will be able to set new targets like say increase in market share by 10% and accomplish it if a good control system exists.

b.

Judging the accuracy company to revise the able to achieve a 10% finding out the causes competitors.

c.

Making efficient use of resources: Since every activity will be performed according to set standards wastage and spoilage will be reduced. In case of company M for example the rejection rate of mobile manufacturing should not be more than about 3 per million phones made. Similarly in other areas like marketing efficiency of marketing activities can be judged

of standards: A good control system will help the standards set. For example if the company is not increase in sales it might revise it to say 5% after which may range to better technology or pricing of

by increase in sales as % of existing sales. All this is possible only through efficient control system. d.

Ensuring order and discipline: Existence of a good control systems ensures that order and discipline are maintained in the company. For example existence of closed circuit cameras and computers tracking each and every activity in the company will deter dishonest employees from resorting to any irresponsible behavior.

e.

Facilitating coordination in action: The standards set in a good controlling system are well coordinated for each employee and each department according to the overall objectives of the company. So coordination in actions is achieved. For the company M this is all the more important as presence of competition has resulted in loss of market share.

Question 2: How can company relate its planning with control in this line of business to ensure that its plans are actually implemented and targets attained. Answer: Planning provides benchmarks against which control is exercised. This process takes place by measurement of performance, pointing out deviations and revising plans. Thus planning is the basis of control and only after control new standards are set i.e. existing standards revised. For example in the company M following standards can be set as a result of planning:a.

Introduction of new technology like videophone facilities and high speed broadband internet in phones below Rs 12000/=. The actual control process will measure whether the company is able to achieve this target. It might be possible that the minimum cost of production may work out to be Rs 13000/=. In this case the company will have to either revise its previous standard or find out other measures it can take to reduce costs. Thus we see that Planning has provided a basis for control.

b.

Similarly the company will have to set standards in important areas such as profit, market share and other costs etc. as part of planning and the control process will be based on them. Thus the company will be able to relate planning with control.

Question 3: Give the steps in the control process that the company should follow to remove the problems it is facing. Answer: The company should take the following steps in control process to remove the problems it is facing:a.

Setting Performance Standards: The company should set performance standards in every area of performance or key result areas like sales, financial performance , technological upgradation & employee performance etc.

b.

Measurement of Performance: Since the company is facing problems it will have to monitor its performance on a day to day basis and any significant change should be promptly looked into.

c.

Comparing actual performance with standards: Actual performance in terms of say sales, profits etc territory wise or region wise should be compared with standards laid down. The deviations should be noted and pointed out in the company management information system for all the concerned to respond immediately.

d.

Analysing deviations: The deviations should be analysed promptly and causes shortlisted. Accountability should also be enforced strictly. For example it is possible that the company may not have noticed some latest technological development in the mobile market which might have resulted in loss of market share. Therefore Research and Development centre should be asked to respond to it.

e.

Taking corrective action: After analysis of deviations and fixation of resp o nsi bi l i ty co rr ecti ve acti o ns can be i ni ti a ted. The se mi gh t be technolo gical u pgradatio n, new marketing cam paign or revisi on of standards.

Question 4: What techniques of control can the company use? Answer: The company can use the following techniques of control:a.

Budgetary control: In using this technique the company can set plans in terms of budgets like say sales budget, production budget, marketing budget and in the end overall budget. These can be used to monitor performance. The company can also use zero base budgeting to enforce accountability.

b.

Personal observations

c.

Statistical reports

d.

Breakeven analysis

e.

ROI analysis

f.

Ratio analysis

g.

Responsibility accounting

h.

Management audit

i.

PER T and CPM

j.

Management information system

CASE PROBLEMS OF PART II UNIT- 9- BUSINESS FINANCE Case Problem ‘S’ Limited is manufacturing steel at its plant in India. It is enloying a buoyant demand for its products as economoic growth is about 7%-8% and the demand for steel is growing. It is planning to set up a new steel plant to cash on the increased demand it is facing. It is estimated that it will require about Rs. 5000 crores to set up and about Rs. 500 crores of working capital to srart the new plant. Questions 1.

What is the role and objectives of financial management for this company?

2.

What is the importance of having a financial plan for this company? give an imaginary plan to support your answer.

3.

What are the factors, which will affect capital structure of this company?

4.

Keeping in mind that it is a highly capital intensive sector what factors will affect the fixed and working capital. Give reasons with regard to both in support of your answer.

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: What is the role and objectives of financial management for this company? Answer: ‘s’ Limited is running a steel plant in India and enjoying a 7% to 8% growth in business. Now it wants to set up a new plant for which fresh infusion of capital is required. The role of financial management for the company can be as follows:a.

Size and composition of fixed assets: From the figures in the case problem the company requires fixed assets of about Rs 5000 crores. This is a huge sum of money so financial management will have to ensure that the composition of this is carefully decided. Since steel is an infrastructure industry for which there is a long gestation period between investments and returns so huge risk is involved. The goal of financial management is to minimize this risk. For this only the most productive assets with latest technology should be purchased and they should not lie idle.

b.

Quantum of current assets and their break up: From the case problem it is clear that current assets to the tune of Rs 500 crores will be required to finance the working capital of the company. This is a huge amount. So the company must ensure that correct breakup of the same is decided for their optimum utilization.

c.

Amount of long term and short term financing to be used: Long term assets require long term financing whereas short term assets require short term financing. The choice is between liquidity and profitability. In case of steel plant both are required in large quantities but an optimum mix of the two will be good for the company according to the conditions it is working in.

d.

Break up of long term financing into debt and equity: This is essentially a capital structure decision. Since setting up of new steel plant is a long term task therefore large amount of debt is needed. Accordingly debt equity ratio might be more.

e.

Items of profit and loss account: Higher debt is likely to increase interest expense of the company. This and other likely expenses must be kept in mind before taking any financing decision. The most important objective of any financial decision is the maximization of profit of the company and wealth of shareholders. Thus we find that in case of steel plant since the gestation period is long therefore shareholders will have to be patient. The company has to accomplish this objective very maturely.

Question 2: What is the importance of having a financial plan for this company? Give an imaginary plan in support of your answer. Answer: The importance of having a financial plan for this company can be studied under the following points:a.

Financial planning helps to forecast what might happen in future. Thus it prepares the company to face uncertainty. Thus in the case of steel plant since it involves heavy capital investment so it is very important to carry out this exercise judiously.

b.

It helps in coordinating various business functions like production and sales by providing clear policies and procedures. In the case of steel plant it is very important.

c.

Detailed plans of action prepared under financial planning reduce waste, duplication of efforts and gaps in planning.

d.

It links present with the future.

e.

It provides link between investment and financing decisions on a continuous basis.

f.

By spelling out detailed objectives for various business segments, it makes the evaluation of actual performance easier.

An Imaginary Financial Plan for Steel Plant ( in the form of Anticipated Balance Sheet) Liabilities (Rs crores)

Amount (Rs crores)

Assets

Amount

Share Capital

600

Fixed Assets

3000

Reserves and surplus

400

Investments

1000 1000

Secured Loans

2000

Current Assets& loans and advances

Unsecured Loans

2000

Miscellaneous Expenditure

300

Profit and Loss Account (Debit Balance)

200

Current Liabilities and Provisions TOTAL

500 5500

TOTAL

5500

Notes: a.

The above anticipated financial plan in purely imaginary based on the information given in the case problem.

b.

The total capital is mentioned as Rs 5500 crores.

c.

The fixed capital is Rs 5000 crores and working capital is Rs 500 crores.

d.

A debt equity ratio of 4;1 has been assumed which is quite common in India.

e.

Since a steel plant is an infrastructure project having long gestation period therefore company will have to borrow. It is assumed that the company has borrowed Rs 4000 crores equally among secured and unsecured loans.

f.

Since it is an old company it has reserve and surplus of Rs 400 crores.

g.

On account of long gestation period miscellaneous expenditure of Rs 300 crores and debit balance of profit and loss account Rs 200 crores is a reasonable possibility.

h.

Current Ratio of 2:1 is considered quite good.

Question 3: What are the factors which will affect the capital structure of this company? Answer: The factors which will affect the choice of capital structure of this company are:a.

Cash Flow Position: The cash flows of the company will have to cover day to day expenses, interest payment obligations, repayment of principal on loans and investment in fixed assets. In case of a steel company all this is at a very high level. Accordingly this factor is important for the company.

b.

Interest Coverage Ratio: Interest coverage ratio is the number of times profit covers interest. In the above case as we see that in the imaginary financial plan the debt - equity ratio is 4:1 so the interest obligations are high. On the other hand the returns are late from the time the plant is established. So the company will have to be very cautious in deciding its capital structure minutely especially the loan component since it is 80% of the capital. The company should obtain loans at the most favorable terms i.e. lowest interest rate and long repayment periods matching with its own business cycle and gestation period.

c.

Debt service coverage ratio: In corporate finance, it is the amount of cash flow available to meet annual interest and principal payments on debt, including sinking fund payments. In general, it is calculated by:

A DSCR of less than 1 would mean a negative cash flow. A DSCR of less than 1, say .95, would mean that there is only enough net operating income to cover 95% of annual debt payments. Undoubtedly in the case of the steel plant running company this ratio should be more than 1 since the debt component is 4 times the own capital. But it is not easy in the formative years due to large gestation period in setting up the steel plant. d.

Return on Investment: In this industry return on investment is lower in initial years and higher in later years since it is an infrastructure industry and has higher gestation period. This factor may result in shaping of capital structure accordingly.

e.

Cost of debt: If the cost of debt is lower for the business it would be good for the company because as we have seen in the imaginary balance sheet the debt equity ratio is 4:1.

f.

Tax Rate: Interest being a tax deductible expense the cost of debt is lower than equity and results in gain for existing equity share holders. The debt component of this company will be high. Accordingly, it will benefit from it for increasing value of its equity shares.

g.

Cost of Equity: Using more debt can result in loss of solvency and increase in financial risk. In this case the cost of equity will go up. Accordingly the company should not use debt beyond a certain point. Already debt is 80% of the total capital employed. So the company should balance debt and equity for financial soundness.

h.

Floatation Cost: Cost of raising resources involves some cost like getting Prospectus drafted , underwriting and fulfilling SEBI regulations etc. These

have to be kept in mind while deciding the optimum capital structure. In the case of the present company although the debt component is large so floatation cost is not high, nevertheless this has to be kept in mind for the later years when the company seeks to decrease the debt component and increase the equity portion of the capital structure. i.

Risk considerations: Increase in debt component results in increase in financial risk. Apart from this there is also business risk which depends upon high operating costs. In the case of the present company both these risks have to be kept in mind because both debt component as well as operating expenses are high.

j.

Flexibility: Using more debt results in loss of flexibility. So the company should examine whether it should reduce or keep the same under control to maintain flexibility to borrow when required. In the case of the present company the debt component is already high so it should seek to reduce it whenever it can to maintain flexibility.

k.

Control: Issue of debt does not result in loss of control. Thus the company should decide how much debt it should issue to balance control with prudence. Since the debt is already high in the present company therefore the control of promoters is already high.

l.

Regulatory framework: The present regulatory framework in the country is very conducive for companies to raise resources. So the company should not find it difficult to raise resources to fund its business.

m. Stock market conditions: In bullish phase companies find it easy to raise resources. Accordingly the present company should use this time to raise resources if needed. There is always a need of fresh capital for infrastructure projects like steel plants. n.

Capital structure of other companies: In similar conditions the companies should keep in mind the capital structure of other companies. Accordingly, the present company can keep in consideration the capital structure of companies such as TATA STEEL and MITTAL ARCELOR etc.

UNIT- 10- FINANCIAL MARKETS Case Problem- 1 ‘R’ Limited is a real estate company which was formed in 1950. In about 56 years of its existence the company has managed to carve out a niche for itself in this sector. Lately, this sector is witnessing a boom due to the fact that the India economy is on the rise. The incomes of middle class are rising. More people can afford to buy homes for themselves due to easy availability of loans and accompanying tax concessions.

To expand its business in India and abroad the company is weighing various options to raise money through equity offerings in India. Whether to tap equity or debt. market whether to raise money from domestic market or international market or Combination of both? Whe their to raise the necessary finance from money market or capital market. It is also planning to list itself in New York Stock Exchange to raise many through ADR’s. To make its offerings attractive it is planning to offer host of financial plans products to its stakeholders and investors and also expand it’s listing at NSE after complying with the regulations of SEBI. (i)

What benefits will the company derive from listing at NSE?

(ii) What are the regulations of SEBI that the company must comply with? (iii) How does the SEBI exercise control over ‘R’ Limited in the interest of investors? Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: What benefits will the company derive from listing at NSE? Answer: The company will derive the following benefits from listing at NSE:a.

Access to investors funds all over the country.

b.

Positive image of the company due to fulfillment of stringent legal requirements of NSE.

c.

Fair valuation of listed securities.

d.

Growth in goodwill and the consequent benefits

e.

Transparency in dealings due to NSE control and monitoring.

f.

Ease in raising funds.

Question 2: What are the regulations of SEBI that the company has to comply with? Answer: For listing on NSE the company has to fulfill regulations relating to:a.

Registration with SEBI.

b.

Appointment of merchant bankers, underwriters, share transfer agents, debenture trustees, registrars to the issue, bankers to the issue & Depository Participants.

c.

Credit rating if required to do so.

d.

Disclosure and investor protection.

e.

Equity listing agreement.

Question 3: How does the SEBI exercise control over ‘R’ Limited in the interest of investors?

Answer: SEBI exercises control over the company in the interest of investors in the following ways:a.

Prohibiting insider trading in securities.

b.

Regulating substantial acquisition of shares and takeover of companies.

c.

Calling for information and conducting inspections and audits of the company and all the parties relating to securities market.

d.

Performing functions and exercising powers under law.

e.

Levying fees and other charges.

f.

Conducting research and informing investors regarding precautions and steps they should take while dealing in the securities market and with the company per se.

Case Problem 2 Nse Indices

World Markets

Index

Current

Prev.

% CHG

Index

Current

Prev.

% Change

S&P CNX Nifty

3641.1

3770.55

–3.43%

NYSE Composite

8926.93

9120.93

–2.13%

CNX Nifty Junior

6458.55

6634.85

–2.66%

NASDAQ Composite

2350.57

2402.29

–2.15%

CNX IT

510.5

5314.05

–4.02%

DOW Jones I.A.

12076

12318.6

–1.97%

Bank Nifty

5039.05

5251.55

–4.05%

S&P 500

1377.95

1406.6

–2.04%

CNX 100

3519.35

3640.35

–3.32%

Nikkei 225

16676.9

17178.8

–2.92%

Source: www.nseindia.com

The above figures are taken from the website of national stock exchange of India. They illustrate the movement of NSE stock indices as well as world stock indices on the diate indicated. Questions 1.

What do you mean by a stock index? How is it calculated?

2.

What conclusions can you draw from the various movements of NSE stock indices?

3.

What factors affect the movement of stock indices? Elaborate on the nature of these factors.

4.

What relationship do you see between the movement of indices in world markets and NSE indices?

5.

Givedetails of all the indices mentioned above. You can find information on the web or business magazines.

(The teacher should help the students in answering these questions. They can look at the website mentioned above and also website of SEBI, i.e., www.sebi.gov.in for educational material. This exercise will help the students in underatanding the stock markets clearly and also create interest therein.) Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: What do you mean by Stock Index? How is it calculated? Answer: A Stock index is a measure of the movement in the prices of a selected basket of company stock over a period of time with some base year/ date. It is calculated according to selected stock rates in the stock market. These stocks are selected on the basis of some predetermined criteria such as market capitalisation (market price multiplied by the total no. Of outstanding shares), volume of shares traded and other parameters decided by the stock exchange in consultation and according to the norms of SEBI Question 2: What conclusions can you draw from the various movements of NSE stock indices? Answer: All the indices are following the same pattern i.e. they are all coming down which indicates that the stock market moves according to herd mentality. It indicates bearish phase whereby the prices come down signifying that there are more sellers in the market than the buyers of stock and other instruments of direct investment. Question 3: What factors affect the movement of stock indices? Elaborate on the nature of these factors. Answer: Some of the factors, which affect the movement of stock indices, are: 1.

Whether the economy is growing or not: If the investor perceives that the economy is growing and more corporate profits are expected then they become more optimistic and begin to buy more. This results in the shortage of those stocks and consequently the prices begin to rise causing the stock indices also rise.

2.

Company accounting results quarterly and annual: The good financial results of the company’s gives rise to great expectations. The investors feel that they might be rewarded in the form of more bonus shares and also more dividends. This causes prices to rise. The other way is also a possibility when corporate profits and below expectations

3.

Government policy: Any good policy measure like reduction in taxes meets with increase in the prices of stocks. On the other hand any negative policy decision like increasing taxes results in declining index.

1. Trends in Global markets: Since India’s market is aligned with the global markets so the same trend is reflected in the Indian stock markets, Question 4: What relationship do you see between the movement of indices in world market and NSE indices? Answer: As can be seen the Indian and global stock markets follow the same trend due to global transfer of investment and increased integration of the world markets. UNIT-11 MARKETING Case Problem Nokia takes four-lane road to consumers. NEW DELHI: After having grabbed a king-size 79% share of the Rs 15,000crore mobile handset market in India, Nokia India has found a new way of connecting people. The mobile handset manufacturer has embarked upon a brand new retail strategy that is based on a classification of its consumers into four major groups that separates people in terms of usage, income level and lifestyle. The classification is based on an extensive survey - the Nokia Segmentation Study -that was carried over two years involving 42,000 consumers from 16 countries. It studied the impact lifestyle choices and aUi udes have on the mobile devices consumers buy and how they use them. The strategy, which was announced globally in June last year, is being unfolded in India now. While the nitty-gritty of the new strategy is still being worked out, it is likely that the company would follow separate marketing strategies for the four different segments. The advertising campaigns could be different for the segments. Nokia’s entire product portfolio has now been re-aligned towards these IVUl gruups to address the specitic needs of each. The first of these segments Live, aimed a first time users whose basic need is to stay in touch with voice as the main driver, would have basic handsets low on features and price. “These may be functional phones but the target group for these phones range from SEC C (low socio-economic class) to SEC Al + (very high socioeconomic class) markets,” says Nokia India marketing head Devinder Kishore. The second segment Connect looks at more evolved users who look for more functionality and features and connectivity. Accordingly, phones in this segment would have GPRS, camera and music capabilities. The next two categories, Achieve and Explore, are aimed at high-end users and have Nokia’s top-end handsets. For example, Achieve segment looks at

enterprise users who need to have business functionalities in their phones. Nokia’s new E-series has been put under this segment with handsets having QWER’IY keyboards and full Internet capabilities. Aimed at high-end lifestyle users, Explore would be the most prominent segment for the company in the coming years. Says Nokia India multimedia business director Vineet Taneja, “This segment would see the most vibrant growth in the coming year. It will look at five different areas - applications, imaging, mobile TV, music and gaming. We are fast developing the ecosystem to support these areas.” Nokia acquired music solution and content provider LoudEye and GPS solution provider GateS. It is all slated to launch its most high-profile handset, which boasts of having a S mega pixel camera and GPS capabilities apart from iPod quality music, in February. Says Taneja, “There is increasing demand for convergence and multiple functionalities in high-end handsets. The N-series will by to address thai.” Nokia feels that the new platform strategy wherein different handsets are launched under a platform, like the N-Series, will become a status and style statement and drive numbers. Source: www.economictimes.indiatimes.com Question 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify the four market segments that Nokia plans to address as per the news report above. What is the basis of classification of the market used by the company? What do you mean by realignment of product portfolio? Illustrate this from the case above. Identify the points that can be highlighted in marketing campaigns for each segment. What are the different considerations in the mind of consumers of each segment while purchasing mobile phones as given in the above case?

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: Identify the four market segments that Nokia plans to address as per the news report above. Answer: The four segments market that Nokia plans to address are:a. b. c. d.

Live Connect Achieve Explore

Question 2: What is the basis of classification used by the company? Answer: The basis of classification of market segments of the company are based on usage, income level and lifestyle. Question 3: What do you mean by realignment of product portfolio? Illustrate this from the case above. Answer: The Product Portfolio is the collection of businesses and products that make up the company. The best product portfolio would be one which gives optimum returns in terms of market shares and cash flows. To ensure that it is best the company must realign its product portfolio continuously by changing the product/ service offerings through market research to suit the changed consumer preferences and tastes. This process is called realignment of product portfolio. According to the news report Nokia is realigning its product portfolio as per results of extensive survey- the Nokia Segmentation Study- that was carried over two years involving 42,000 consumers from 16 countries. It studied the impact lifestyle choices and attitudes have on the mobile devices consumers buy and how they use them. Accordingly Nokia has divided its market into 4 segments Live, Connect, Achieve and Explore based on usage, income level and lifestyle of the consumers. It will offer products with features and price which suit each segment and realign its mobile devices accordingly. Question 4: Identify the points which can be highlighted in marketing campaigns for each segment. Answer: The points that can be highlighted in each segment is as under:a.

Liv e: Fu ncti o na l p ho nes wi th basi c featu res l i k e vo i ce and SM S connectivity which are low on price.

b.

Connect: Basic features with additional value added capabilities like GPRS, music and camera.

c.

Acheve: Bu siness functionali ties i n addi tion to all the features of CONNECT segment of mobile phones. This segment also includes handsets having QWER TY keyboards and Internet Capabilities(Nokia E series)

d.

Explore: Application imaging, Mobile TV, Music and gaming capabilities in addition to all features of ACHIEVE segment of mobile phones.

Question 5: What are the different considerations in the mind of consumers of each segment while purchasing mobile phones as given in the above case? Answer: The basic considerations in the mind of consumers of each segment while purchasing mobile phones as given in the case are:a.

Live: Low price, basic features of voice and SMS and certain common use features like alarm and torch etc.

b.

Connect: More functionality, features and connectivity being move evolved users than than LIVE segment.

c.

Achieve: Enterprise users who need to have business functionalities in addition to features of CONNECT segment.

d.

Explore: High end life style uses which should include features like mobile TV, application imaging music and gaming.

UNIT-12- CONSUMER PROTECTION Case Problem Now, filing complaint is just a click away. Filing a complaint in a consumer court’s going to get a lot easier by the end of this year, virtually. No Matter which part of the country you’re in, it’s going to happen at the click of a mouse The project, called Confonet (Computerisation and Computer Networking of Consumer Fora), is being executed on a turnkey basis by the Notional Informatics Centre (NIC). “Online registration of complaints, the government hopes, will promote egovernance, transparency, efficiency and streamlining of consumer fora,” said an official in the consumer affairs ministry. Of Rs. 48.64 crore set aside for the project, the government has released Rs 30.56 crore so far, the official added. “Besides software development and testing, networking and project implementation, integration and site preparation, it will include purchase of hardware for all the 583 district fora, 35 state commissions and the National Commission,” the official said. At present, computer systems and system software have been delivered to 25 state commissions and 300 district fora - never mind the fact that it’s sometimes a long wait before the hardware is finally unpacked and set up in some of the districts. Meanwhile, training of staff, sometimes in the classroom and sometimes through e-learning sessions, are in full swing. “But just setting up an online complaint filing system won’t ensure a strong consumer protection movement in the country - for that we’re working on GenNext and the best way to do that is to go to schools,” the official said. The government is, therefore, involving school children to form consumer clubs so as to involve them in various consumer welfare activities. Part of the funding for running the club is to come from various state governments, with an equally matching grant from the Centre. However, a number of state governments are yet to sanction the fund - some of these include Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala. Source: www.economictimes.indiatimes.com

Question 1.

What new measure is the ministry of consumer affairs taking to make filing of complaint easy?

2.

What role can you as a student play to contribute to the cause of consumer protection?

3.

What scenario of consumer protection do you foresee when the measures proposed in the above news report are implemented? [Teachers are advised to help students to study judgements of various consumer forums including National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission at www.ncdrc.nic.in. This initiative will help the pupils to understand the role of consumer protection in India better. Various published material can also be used. Consumer clubs in schools can also help the students in this regard.)

Suggested Tentative Solution Question 1: What new measure is the ministry of consumer affairs taking to make filing of complaint easy? Answer: The ministry of consumer affairs is making it easy for the aggrieved consumers to file a complaint by use of internet virtually through a project called Confonet (Computerisation and Computer networking of Consumer Fora) which is being executed on a turnkey basis by the National Informatics Centre(NIC). The consumer can file a complaint in the concerned consumer forum through a click of a mouse on the website of the forum. Question 2: What role can you as a student play to contribute to the cause of consumer protection? Answer: As a student some of the ways in which I can contribute to the cause of consumer awareness is:a.

Becoming member of consumer club of my school and taking part in its activities.

b.

Exercising consumer rights myself like enquiring about products fully etc.

c.

Understanding my duties and following them.

d.

Actually attending a consumer court myself and telling the class and other students about my experiences.

e.

Joining an NGO understanding human behavior.

f.

Writing letters to editor and articles about consumer protection act.

Question 3: What scenario of consumer protection do you foresee when the measures do your foresee ? Answer 3: If the present system is implemented I foresee some of the following changes:a.

The filing of number of consumer complaints will increase due to ease in doing so.

b.

The status and action taken can be monitored very easily.

c.

The companies should also feel heat of not doing enough to protect the consumer.

CHAPTER 5

Enabling Environment Commerce Laboratory and Internet for Enhancing Teaching Learning Process and for Personal Development Commerce teaching has witnessed many changes in the curriculum. But there is a perceptible lack of teaching aids in the teaching learning process. A commerce laboratory can be used to make teaching learning process joyful and for development of competencies which otherwise might be difficult to establish. It may be noted that the existing computer laboratories in schools can be used for the purpose as the use of computers and internet is inherent in many of the activities. The existing project work in business studies carrying weightage of 10 marks in class XI and in Accountancy carrying a weightage of 20 marks in class XII can be done with the help of commerce lab and internet. Commerce Laboratory Objectives 1.

To ensure that the students understand the subject better.

2.

To ensure that the students take interest in the subject.

3.

To make learning joyful.

4.

To give facilities to the students to do their projects.

5.

To develop skills which will help the students to apply the knowledge gained in the real world situations.

6.

To develop vocational skills relevant to the subject and to meet the course objectives.

7.

Constructive use of internet.

Material required to establish the lab 1.

Computers with internet connection

2.

A colour television with DTH connection.

3.

Adequate furniture.

4.

Library support.

5.

Subscriptions to business journals, magazines and newspapers.

6.

Appropriate financial support.

7.

A DVD Player.

Activities that can be done in the lab 1.

The pro j ect wo rk i n bu si ness stu dies as requi red i n cl ass XI and Accountancy in class XII.

2.

Using internet to download materials which are relevant to the subject and project work.

3.

Field trips to business entities like factories, banks and companies.

4.

Short term courses like TALLY and MS- Office.

5.

Panel discussions on burning topics in business and accounting.

6.

Guest speakers.

7.

Seminars on relevant topics.

8.

Watching channels like ND- Profit and CNBC.

9.

Some short term training courses can also take place like Personality Development and presentation skills.

10. Preparation of teaching aids even with the help of the students. 11. Creating monitored accounts of students for academic collaboration on websites such as www.epals.com under which students and teachers exchange academic notes etc with students and teachers of other countries. This is also a part of culture quest programme of the Directorate of Education, Govt. of NCT of delhi. 12. Development and exhibition of computerized lessons like in CALTOON- Z programme of the Directorate of Education. 13. Development and exhibition of power point presentations by teachers and students. 14. Group teaching activities in which student groups are formed of students and are assigned specified tasks in accountancy and business studies. Note: The nature of commerce activities is such that it is directly related to the outer world and human behaviour. As such its activities cannot be limited to the commerce lab and involve high degree of outside work. Specific activities in Accountancy 1.

Studying the annual reports of companies either printed or downloaded from the internet.

2.

Training in MS- Access which is an important part of Accounting in class XI.

3.

Accessing websites like www.icai.org which will help the children to be in touch with practical aspects of accountancy in practice with the help of the teacher eg accounting standards.

4.

Searching the internet for accountancy resources through search engines like Google and using them to supplement the formal teaching.

5.

Using online encyclopedias like wikipedia for better understanding of the subject.

6.

Using business magazines subscribed or available online on the internet to understand the accounting practices and their implications. And many more activities.

Specific activities in Business Studies 1.

Finding resources for doing project work in class XI on topics such as banking, insurance etc.

2.

Accessing websites of companies to understand their practices with regard to marketing, finance and HRD etc.

3.

Constructing case problems and solving them with the help of business magazines and the internet.

4.

Studying stock exchange trading and its implications especially fluctuation in share prices by accessing websites of BSE, NSE and SEBI.

5.

Studying investment options like post office schemes.

6.

Accessing government websites with the help of www.india.gov.in to understand the government policies and facilities.

7.

Using internet to open and operate email accounts for better life.

8.

Exploring career options with the help of printed material or internet.

9.

The lab should be extensively used for solving case problems, role plays, panel discussions and other group activities in business and management. This will make learning joyful and create interest in the subject. List of Websites

The following is the list of websites which can be of some help to commerce teachers personally, for service matters and for teaching learning process. It is to be noted that this list is not exhaustive but only suggestive and illustrative. I. Basic Websites 1.

www.edudel.nic.in:- The website of Directorate of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi which is very important for all of us.

2.

www.cbse.nic.in:- The website of Central Board of Secondary Education which contains Sample Papers, curriculum and latest additions and deletions to the same.

3.

www.ncert.nic.in:- The website of NCERT which contains on line digital editions of all textbooks published by it besides material which is useful to all teachers.

4.

www.india.gov.in:- The official website of Government of India through which we can access websites of various ministries, get latest press releases and even send greetings. This website can be personalized according to the requirements of the user.

5.

www.google.com:- This is the most useful search engine which opens up repository of knowledge. You can create an email account, blog, create a group & use various search options. You can even personalize this website as per your requirements. This website can be used to access various sources of knowledge.

6.

www.enwikipedia.org:- This is the website of online encyclopedia which anyone can edit. It has many family websites like wikibooks.org, wikisource.org, wikinews.org & wiktionary.org etc. This family of websites is rich repository of knowledge which can be used.

7.

www.answers.com:- You can ask any question on this website. If the answer is available it will be flashed. If the question is new, you can register on this website, specify your email. As and when the question will be answered, you will be informed by email. You can also answer the unanswered questions asked by others. It also links you to other resources on the web.

II. Websites of Newspapers, Journals and Periodicals 1.

w w w .e c om om ic ti m es .i n d i a ti m e s.c om : “Economic Times” is a very useful business newspaper for commerce teachers. On this website you can find industry reports and all resources which include stock quotes and market reports etc.

2.

www.thehindubusinessline.com:- This is also a popular business newspaper website where you can find useful business and commerce resources.

3.

www.ft.com:- This is the website of ‘FINANCIAL TIMES’, an international business newspaper where you can find useful business and commerce resources.

4.

www.businessstandard.com:- Business Standard is a popular business newspaper. You can access news,

reports and analysis relating to your area of business and economic interest on this website. 5.

www.financialexpress.com:- ‘Financial Express’ is also a popular business daily of ‘Indian Express’ group of newspapers. You can locate business and economics resources on this website.

6.

www.businessweek.com:- ‘Business Week’ is a popular management/business magazine. This website will be useful to you if you want international and sectoral news and reports.

III. Websites of Universities and Consultancies 1.

www.bcg.com:- This is the website of BOSTON CONSULATING GROUP. Many articles of interest on global business & economy are available. You can register on this website and receive regular updates and access these articles.

2.

www.ocw.mit.edu:- This is the website of open courseware of MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, Boston, USA. Its course material including that of business, management and accounting is available on line for use free of charge.

3.

www.mckinseyquarterly.com:- Mckinsey & Company is a very well known consulting firm. You can register on this website and receive regular updates through email. Its articles on business are analytical and give a very broad spectrum of knowledge.

IV. Other Knowledge Websites 1.

www.marketingteacher.com:- This website contains many teaching resources in marketing like on marketing mix etc. These can be used profitably as teaching aid in classroom transactions.

2.

www.businessballs.com:- This website contains free teaching resources in management & business games etc. These can be downloaded and used in the teaching learning process.

3.

www.sebi.gov.in:- This is the official website of SECURITIES AND EXCHNGE BOARD OF INDIA. It contains education material for general public and circulars etc on Securities trading and issue management etc. This can be used as a supplementary material for enriching classroom teaching.

4.

www.rbi.org.in:- This is the official website of ‘Reserve Bank of India’. It is a rich repository of resources on financial markets and policies including monetary and credit policies. It also contains exchange rates etc. It is useful for finding teaching resources.

5.

www.nseindia.com:- NATIONAL STOCK EXCHANGE OF INDIA is a well known entity in India which provides a platform to investors to buy and sell securities. This is the official website of NSE. The stock quotes, education material and movement of stock indices can be accessed. Even material on certification in financial markets can be accessed. So it is an important source of knowledge on the subject.

6.

www.economywatch.com:- This website is a rich source of knowledge on business and economy of the world. It has special focus in the Indian Economy.

7.

www.bseindia.com:- This is the official website of Mumbai Stock Exchange. It has resources on stock quotations and market capitalization etc.

8.

www.epals.com:- This is a very important website for networking of teachers and students. Once a teacher is registered on this website he/she can create monitored email accounts of pupils. They can then collaborate with other classrooms worldwide on common projects.

9.

www.web.tickle.com:- This is an interesting website on IQ and other personality tests. You can register and take on line tests.